Fell-top conditions on Helvellyn remain difficult as a gradual thaw sets in at lower levels.

Today’s news from the Lake District authority’s assessor is that a clear fracture line has developed along the cornice on the eastern aspect of the summit plateau.

Helvellyn's summit in winter 

The report warns that the crack should be avoided. It is worth noting that cornices often break away from a point well behind the developing crack. Scarp slopes below the cornice are also a favourite avalanche location, so the whole of the area above 600m remains risky.

Any slope of more than 20 degrees and holding snow is a potential avalanche area.

Ice axe and crampons and full winter clothing are advisable for anyone tackling steep ground and will be useful on the summit plateau, which is covered in ice with small amounts of snow.

Further snow is forecast tomorrow and Tuesday, with blizzard conditions likely at times above 500m on Tuesday. Westerly winds are likely to add to the cornicing effect on the fell’s eastern edge and fresh snow always adds to the risk of avalanche.

High winds will give a significant will-chill on the tops. Conditions are likely to remain unsettled all week, with a gradual milder air flow by Thursday.

Avalanche risk in all the areas covered by the Scottish Avalanche Information Service remains at category three – considerable, with reports of recent avalanche debris on northern aspects in the southern Cairngorms.

Most areas in the Highlands are reporting significant new snow above 750m with Creag Meagaidh’s assessors reporting ‘a much more wintry look to our patch now’.