Weather advice on Dartmoor

This has just been posted on the DNPA website - sound advice

Adverse weather conditions – advice to the public


Dartmoor National Park Authority understands that people want to come and enjoy the wintry conditions on Dartmoor. We do however request the assistance of the public at what is a difficult time when resources are stretched. Icy roads and snow falls can cause great difficulty for Emergency Services, Highway Authorities and local residents. Farmers face particular difficulties as animals become trapped in snow drifts and require supplementary feed and water in these adverse condions.

It is essential that at these times visitors do not venture beyond any ‘ROAD CLOSED’ signs as they will hinder any clearance operation. Once roads are clear the various agencies will endeavour to open up car parks and official access points as soon as possible.

Please use common sense if you are coming onto Dartmoor and follow these simple guidelines:-

•Heed verbal advice and warnings from officials, regularly monitor and act upon local media updates and weather reports.

•Take adequate warm clothing, shovel, blankets, food, and a hot drink. Be prepared that the weather conditions may deteriorate rapidly.

•Do not drive beyond “ROAD CLOSED” signs, the signs will be there for a reason; additional traffic on roads that are closed hampers clearance operations as snow ploughs are unable to pass..

•Use official car parks and lay-bys for parking.

•Do not leave unattended vehicles on roadsides, verges or turning areas – even if the person in front of you decides to. Vehicles left in this manner can obstruct emergency services access.

•Do not obstruct gateways, farmers need access to fields in adverse weather to check on the welfare of animals. Animal’s lives could be put at risk by inappropriate parking.

•Do not enter private land for sledging without landowners permission.

•Enjoy yourselves, be safe and take ALL LITTER (including sledging materials) home with you.