Condition Analysis
AI-powered assessment using site data and 14-day weather history
Five consecutive dry days with warming temperatures (up to 26.5°C recently) should have dried the slate surfaces, but today's elevated humidity (83%) and the quarry's notoriously poor air circulation mean some sheltered faces — particularly north-facing — may still harbour residual dampness. A visual check on arrival is strongly advised before committing to routes.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed quarry amphitheatre traps humidity and has minimal air circulation, meaning even after five dry days the sheltered north-facing walls and deep recesses may retain surface moisture or condensation.
- Seepage lines from the quarry rim can persist for several days after rain — the last significant rainfall (2.2mm on Aug 9) was five days ago, but rim seepage in this sheltered bowl can linger longer than expected.
- Polished quarried slate surfaces are dramatically more slippery than natural slate when even lightly damp — the slabs and lower-angle terrain require extra caution compared to the steeper edged climbing.
- A significant wet spell is forecast from Aug 17–18 (up to 18.3mm combined), so today and tomorrow represent the best window before conditions deteriorate again.
Warnings
2
- Polished quarried slate becomes treacherously slippery with even a thin film of moisture — test friction carefully before weighting holds on any route.
- Significant rain forecast Aug 17–18 will likely cause rim seepage that persists well beyond the rain itself in this sheltered venue.
Reasoning
Five dry days since the last rain (2.2mm on Aug 9) on non-porous slate should be sufficient for surface drying on south- and west-facing walls, but today's 83% humidity and the quarry's sheltered microclimate raise concerns about condensation and residual dampness on north-facing surfaces.
Despite reasonable westerly winds regionally, the sheltered quarry bowl receives minimal wind benefit, and drying has relied primarily on solar warming — the south-facing walls will be driest, while north-facing walls in permanent shade may still be greasy.
Slate is non-porous and does not suffer structural weakening when wet, so hold breakage from moisture is not a concern.
Mid-August offers long daylight hours and generally favourable temperatures for drying, though the recent pattern of high humidity (74% average over the last week) partially offsets the summer advantage.
Contributing Factors
6
No significant rain since 2.2mm on Aug 9 gives non-porous slate adequate surface drying time, especially on sun-exposed aspects.
Today's 83% humidity in the sheltered quarry bowl can cause condensation on cool slate surfaces, particularly north-facing walls that receive little direct sun.
The enclosed amphitheatre traps humid air and limits wind-assisted drying, meaning surfaces stay damp longer than open crags despite the same weather.
Temperatures reaching 25–26°C on Aug 12–13 would have driven significant evaporation from the quarry surfaces during the dry spell.
Quarried and polished slate surfaces lose friction dramatically with even a light film of moisture, making slabs and lower-angle routes hazardous.
Forecast rain from Aug 17–18 (up to 18.3mm combined) will reset conditions and likely keep the quarry damp well into the following week.
Recommendations
3
- Climb today or tomorrow for the best window — prioritise south- and west-facing walls which will be driest, and visually inspect surfaces for sheen or dampness before committing.
- Avoid slabs and lower-angle polished routes unless you can confirm they are completely dry to the touch; steeper walls with positive edges are a safer bet in marginal conditions.
- Consider postponing if you arrive and find condensation or greasy surfaces — the incoming rain from Aug 17 means waiting until at least Aug 20–21 for the next dry window.
Previous Analyses
Likely Safe to Climb
82%
2 days ago
Four consecutive dry days with warm temperatures (up to 25.8°C today) and moderate humidity have allowed the quarried slate surfaces to dry well. South- and west-facing walls should be in excellent condition; north-facing sections may retain slight dampness in sheltered corners but should be climbable with care.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed quarry bowl traps humidity and limits air circulation, so even after four dry days some deeply sheltered north-facing recesses or areas beneath the rim may harbour residual dampness from the 4–6 Aug wet spell.
- Seepage lines from the quarry rim can persist for several days after rain — the most recent measurable rain (2.2mm on Aug 9) was four days ago, but rim seepage from the heavier Aug 4–6 rainfall (~21.6mm total) may still be trickling in isolated spots.
- Polished quarried slate at Hodge Close is dramatically more slippery than natural slate when even slightly damp — test friction on your first moves before committing.
- The deep pool makes DWS viable but water temperature will be cold even in August; conditions for roped climbing on the walls are currently the best they've been in over a week.
Warnings
2
- Polished quarried slate becomes treacherously greasy with even light moisture — if any surface feels slick, back off immediately.
- Seepage lines below the quarry rim may still be active in isolated spots despite the dry spell; visually inspect routes before climbing.
Reasoning
Non-porous slate does not absorb water, and four dry days with peak temperatures of 18–26°C should have evaporated all surface moisture from the main faces, though the sheltered quarry bowl may retain localised dampness in deeply shaded spots.
The sheltered position limits wind-assisted drying, but the warm southerly/south-westerly airflow and high summer temperatures have compensated; south- and west-facing walls will have had the most solar heating and should be thoroughly dry.
Slate is non-porous and does not suffer structural weakening when wet, so there is no hold-breakage risk from recent moisture.
Mid-August is peak drying season with long daylight hours and generally warm temperatures; this is as good as conditions get for Hodge Close, though the Lake District's maritime climate means showers are never far away.
Contributing Factors
6
No measurable rain since Aug 9 (2.2mm), giving ample time for surface moisture to evaporate from non-porous slate.
Temperatures reaching 22–26°C over the last three days significantly accelerate surface drying even in the sheltered quarry bowl.
The enclosed amphitheatre restricts wind penetration, slowing evaporation despite moderate regional winds of 15–17 km/h.
Over 21mm fell across Aug 4–6, and rim seepage at Hodge Close can persist for days, though a week of mostly dry weather since should have largely resolved this.
Average humidity of 74% over the past week is typical for the Lake District in summer and not low enough to guarantee rapid drying but not high enough to prevent it.
Humidity drops to 53–56% during the afternoon today with clear or partly cloudy skies, providing an excellent climbing window.
Recommendations
3
- Climb this afternoon when humidity is at its lowest (53–56%) and temperatures peak — this is likely the best window for the next week given incoming unsettled weather.
- Check north-facing walls and areas directly below the quarry rim for residual seepage before committing to routes in those zones.
- Conditions deteriorate from Aug 16 onward with significant rain forecast (20mm on Aug 17), so prioritise climbing today and tomorrow.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
70%
3 days ago
Three consecutive dry days with warm temperatures today (up to 25.7°C) and dropping humidity suggest south- and west-facing surfaces should be dry, but the sheltered quarry bowl's poor air circulation means north-facing walls and seepage zones may still hold residual dampness from the recent wet spell. Conditions are promising for this afternoon but a visual check on arrival is essential.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed amphitheatre traps humidity and dramatically slows drying compared to open crags — even three dry days may not fully clear dampness from shaded recesses and the quarry floor zone.
- Seepage from the quarry rim fed by 21.6mm of rain on Aug 4–6 can persist for several days in sheltered drainage lines, particularly on the north-facing wall.
- Polished quarried slate surfaces lose friction with even a thin film of moisture — test friction carefully on lower holds before committing to steeper routes.
- Today's afternoon clearing (humidity dropping to 46–48%, sun breaking through) creates the best drying window; south-facing walls will be in the best condition from midday onward.
Warnings
2
- Polished quarried slate becomes treacherously slippery with even a thin moisture film — do not trust visual dryness alone; test friction with your hands before climbing.
- Seepage from the quarry rim can drip onto routes unexpectedly; watch for wet streaks on upper sections even when lower rock appears dry.
Reasoning
The last significant rain was 6.2mm on Aug 5 followed by 3.5mm on Aug 6, with only a light 2.2mm on Aug 9; three fully dry days since then and today's warm temperatures should have cleared surface moisture on sun-exposed walls, but the sheltered quarry bowl retains humidity and seepage lines may still be damp.
Light winds (8–10 km/h) and the sheltered quarry position limit air-assisted drying, but today's high of 25.7°C and afternoon humidity dropping to 46% provide strong evaporative drying on south- and west-facing aspects; north-facing walls with no direct sun will dry much more slowly.
Slate is non-porous and not structurally weakened by moisture, so hold breakage risk from dampness is negligible.
Mid-August provides long daylight hours and reasonable temperatures for drying, though the recent unsettled spell with frequent frontal rain is typical of a Lake District summer and has kept background humidity elevated.
Contributing Factors
6
No rain since Aug 9 (2.2mm), with two fully dry days and today also dry, giving non-porous slate adequate surface drying time on exposed faces.
Temperatures reaching 25.7°C with humidity dropping to 46% this afternoon provide strong evaporative drying conditions.
The enclosed amphitheatre has poor air circulation, meaning the surrounding average humidity of 74–78% over recent days lingers inside the bowl longer than at open crags.
Over 20mm fell between Aug 4–6 and rim seepage can persist for days in this sheltered venue, particularly affecting north-facing routes.
The smooth quarried finish is exceptionally greasy with even slight residual moisture, making friction assessment critical before climbing.
Today's winds of only 8–10 km/h barely penetrate the quarry bowl, reducing convective drying especially on shaded walls.
Recommendations
3
- Target south- and west-facing routes from midday onward when the sun and dropping humidity have had maximum drying effect.
- Test friction carefully on lower holds before committing — if polished slate feels at all greasy, back off and wait.
- Avoid north-facing walls and areas below the quarry rim where seepage lines may still be active from last week's rain.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
60%
5 days ago
The last rain was only yesterday (2.1mm on Aug 9), following a very wet period with 23.7mm over the past week, and the sheltered quarry bowl will be slow to shed residual moisture despite today's dry and clearing conditions. South-facing walls may be climbable by mid-afternoon today, but north-facing sections and seepage lines are likely still damp; a visual inspection on arrival is essential.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed quarry amphitheatre traps humidity and limits air circulation, meaning surfaces can remain greasy well after surrounding open crags have dried.
- Seepage from the quarry rim often persists for days after sustained rain — the recent wet spell (nearly 24mm in seven days) makes active seepage very likely on multiple routes.
- Polished quarried slate at Hodge Close is significantly more friction-dependent than natural slate; even a thin film of moisture makes holds dangerously slippery.
- South-facing walls receiving afternoon sun will dry first, while north-facing sections in permanent shade may retain dampness for an additional 1–2 days.
Warnings
2
- Polished slate at Hodge Close can feel deceptively dry to the eye while retaining an invisible moisture film — always test friction before weighting holds on steep ground.
- Seepage from the quarry rim after the recent wet spell may drip onto routes unexpectedly; check for water streaks above your intended line.
Reasoning
With 2.1mm of rain just yesterday and 23.7mm over the past week in a sheltered quarry bowl averaging 83% humidity, surface moisture and seepage are very likely still present despite today's dry weather.
Today is the first fully dry day after rain, with moderate NW wind (19 km/h) that will barely penetrate the sheltered quarry; south-facing walls will benefit from afternoon sun (humidity dropping to ~54% by 15:00) but overall drying will be slow.
Slate is non-porous so there is no structural weakening concern, but the polished quarried surfaces lose friction dramatically with even a thin moisture film, creating a serious slip hazard.
Mid-summer offers the best available drying conditions with long daylight hours and reasonable temperatures, though the recent unsettled spell has left humidity elevated and the quarry bowl saturated with moisture.
Contributing Factors
6
Rain fell yesterday (2.1mm) and 23.7mm accumulated over the past seven days, leaving ample surface water and seepage in the quarry.
The enclosed amphitheatre shape severely limits wind penetration, trapping humidity and slowing evaporation despite 19 km/h winds above the rim.
Average humidity over the past week was 83%, and today's morning readings were 80–89%, keeping the quarry bowl damp.
Humidity is forecast to drop to 54–57% between 14:00–15:00 with partial sun, offering the best drying window for south-facing walls.
No rain is forecast for at least the next five days, with warming temperatures up to 28°C by midweek, which will progressively dry even the sheltered quarry.
Hodge Close's quarried slate surfaces are highly polished and become treacherously greasy with even minimal residual moisture.
Recommendations
3
- If climbing today, wait until mid-afternoon and restrict yourself to south-facing walls that have had direct sun; physically test friction on holds before committing to moves.
- Avoid north-facing sections and any routes below the quarry rim where seepage lines are visible — these may take 2–3 more dry days to clear.
- Tomorrow (Aug 11) and especially Aug 12–13 will offer significantly better conditions as the dry spell continues and temperatures rise; consider waiting if conditions look marginal today.
Do Not Climb
45%
5 days ago
Rain today (3.1mm) following a very wet recent period means Hodge Close's sheltered quarry bowl will be damp and greasy. The polished slate surfaces need at least a full dry day with decent airflow before they'll offer reliable friction, and the enclosed amphitheatre traps humidity, prolonging drying further.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed quarry amphitheatre traps humid air and greatly reduces natural air circulation, meaning surfaces stay damp far longer than open crags even though slate is non-porous.
- Seepage from the quarry rim after the recent 25mm+ of rain over the past week will persist for several days, wetting routes beneath drainage lines.
- Polished quarried slate surfaces at Hodge Close are notably more slippery than natural slate — even a thin film of moisture or condensation can make them treacherous.
- South-facing walls in the upper quarry will dry first, while north-facing and deeply recessed sections may remain greasy well into the forecast dry spell.
Warnings
2
- Polished slate in the quarry bowl may appear dry but retain an invisible greasy film — test friction carefully before committing to any route.
- Seepage from the quarry rim will persist for days and can wet routes unexpectedly mid-climb.
Reasoning
With 3.1mm of rain today on top of 25.4mm in the last seven days and average humidity at 81%, the quarry surfaces will be wet and seepage lines from the rim will be actively running.
The sheltered quarry bowl severely limits wind penetration despite moderate winds outside (23.8 km/h today), so drying will be slow even once rain stops; at least one full dry day with lower humidity is needed before surfaces lose their greasy film.
Slate is non-porous and not at risk of structural weakening, but the concern is entirely about surface friction on polished quarried faces.
Mid-summer temperatures are moderate (15–18°C recently) and day length is adequate, but the recent unsettled spell with high humidity has kept the quarry persistently damp.
Contributing Factors
6
3.1mm today follows 25.4mm in the last seven days, keeping all surfaces actively wet and seepage lines charged.
Humidity averaging 81% over the past week and 85% today inhibits evaporative drying, especially in the sheltered quarry bowl.
The enclosed amphitheatre blocks wind penetration, trapping moist air and dramatically slowing surface drying compared to open crags.
Quarried slate surfaces at Hodge Close are smooth and polished, losing friction even with a thin moisture film that might be tolerable on rougher rock.
The forecast shows negligible precipitation (0.3mm on Aug 13) over the next five days, which will allow progressive drying.
Seepage from the quarry rim after heavy recent rain typically persists for 2–3 days even without further precipitation.
Recommendations
3
- Wait at least one full dry day (until August 11 at the earliest) before attempting trad or bouldering routes; south-facing walls will dry first.
- On arrival, physically touch holds and test friction on lower moves before committing — the quarry can look dry while retaining a greasy film.
- Avoid routes beneath the quarry rim or known seepage lines for at least 2–3 days after the last significant rain.
Do Not Climb
45%
6 days ago
Despite two dry days, the quarry has received significant recent rainfall (22mm in the last week, including nearly 12mm on Aug 4th alone) and the sheltered quarry bowl with high humidity (79% average) will be very slow to dry. Polished slate surfaces are likely still greasy, and seepage from the quarry rim is almost certainly still active.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Hodge Close's enclosed amphitheatre shape traps humid air and dramatically slows surface drying compared to open crags — two dry days is insufficient after this much rain in this venue.
- Seepage lines from the quarry rim typically persist for 3–5 days after significant rain; the 12mm on Aug 4th followed by 6mm and 3.5mm on subsequent days means seepage is very likely still running.
- The quarried slate surfaces at Hodge Close are notably more polished than natural slate and become treacherously slippery with even a thin film of moisture or high ambient humidity.
- Deep water soloing remains an option if friction on trad routes is inadequate, but water temperature will be cold — a wetsuit is advisable.
Warnings
2
- Polished quarried slate at Hodge Close is treacherously slippery when damp — falls due to friction loss on apparently dry-looking surfaces are a real risk.
- Seepage from the quarry rim is likely still active and can make specific routes wet even when surrounding rock appears dry.
Reasoning
With 22mm of rain in the past week — including a heavy 12mm event on Aug 4th — and only two fully dry days since, the sheltered quarry bowl is almost certainly still carrying surface moisture and active seepage from the rim.
The sheltered position of the quarry severely limits air circulation, and with average humidity at 79% and temperatures only around 15–18°C, evaporative drying has been minimal despite modest SW winds.
Slate is non-porous so there is no structural weakening concern, but the polished quarried surfaces lose virtually all friction when damp, making climbing extremely hazardous.
Mid-summer conditions should aid drying, but this has been a notably cool and humid spell for August with below-average temperatures, limiting the seasonal advantage.
Contributing Factors
7
22mm in the last 7 days including an 11.9mm event on Aug 4th creates substantial surface water and rim seepage in this enclosed quarry.
Two consecutive dry days is insufficient drying time for Hodge Close's sheltered bowl, which typically needs 3–5 dry days after significant rain.
Average humidity of 79% over the past week inhibits evaporation and can leave a greasy film on polished slate even without direct wetting.
The amphitheatre shape traps moist air and blocks wind, dramatically slowing drying compared to exposed crags.
Average temperatures around 15°C are well below summer norms and reduce evaporative drying potential.
Slate does not absorb water so there is no internal saturation or structural risk, and surfaces will dry once conditions allow.
8.3mm forecast for Aug 9th will reset any drying progress and reactivate seepage lines from the quarry rim.
Recommendations
3
- Wait at least 3 full dry days after the last significant rain before visiting — the quarry bowl needs substantially more drying time than open crags.
- If you do visit, test friction carefully on a low-consequence slab before committing to steeper polished routes, and be prepared to walk away.
- Consider deep water soloing as an alternative if trad routes are too greasy, but bring a wetsuit as quarry pool temperatures remain cold even in August.
Do Not Climb
60%
7 days ago
Hodge Close has received significant rainfall over the past few days (11.9mm on Aug 4, 6.2mm on Aug 5, 3.5mm on Aug 6) with consistently high humidity averaging 80%, and today saw trace precipitation — the sheltered quarry bowl will still be damp with active seepage from the rim. We recommend waiting for a proper drying window before climbing on the polished slate surfaces.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed quarry amphitheatre traps humidity and severely restricts air circulation, meaning even non-porous slate can retain surface moisture and condensation far longer than open crags in the same area.
- Seepage lines from the quarry rim are likely still actively dripping after 21.6mm of rain in the last three days, and these can persist for 2–3 days after the last significant rainfall.
- The polished, quarried slate surfaces at Hodge Close lose friction dramatically when even slightly damp — far more treacherous than natural rough slate faces.
- South-facing walls will dry first but north-facing sections of the amphitheatre receive minimal direct sun and can remain greasy for extended periods in humid conditions.
Warnings
2
- Polished quarried slate can appear dry but retain an invisible greasy film in humid, sheltered conditions — do not trust visual assessment alone; test friction carefully.
- Active seepage from the quarry rim is likely for 2–3 days after the recent heavy rain; beware of wet streaks crossing otherwise dry-looking routes.
Reasoning
With 21.6mm of rain across Aug 4–6, trace rain today, and humidity at 79–90% throughout, surface moisture and seepage are almost certainly present across much of the quarry.
The sheltered quarry bowl severely limits wind penetration despite moderate SW winds (19–27 km/h regionally), and only one partial dry day (Aug 2) has broken the recent wet spell, providing wholly inadequate drying time.
Slate is non-porous so structural weakening is not a concern, but the immediate safety risk from greasy polished surfaces is severe.
Mid-summer provides reasonable temperatures and daylight hours, but the current unsettled Atlantic pattern with repeated frontal rain is preventing the sustained dry spell needed for a sheltered quarry to dry out.
Contributing Factors
6
21.6mm fell across Aug 4–6 with trace rain today, saturating the quarry environment and feeding seepage lines from the rim.
Humidity has averaged 80% over the last week, inhibiting evaporation and likely causing condensation on cold quarry walls.
The enclosed amphitheatre traps moist air and blocks wind, dramatically slowing surface drying compared to exposed crags.
Quarried slate becomes extremely slippery with even trace surface moisture, creating a serious fall hazard.
Slate does not absorb water so there is no structural damage risk and it will dry from the surface relatively quickly once conditions allow.
Regional winds of 19–21 km/h provide some drying potential but penetration into the sheltered quarry bowl is limited.
Recommendations
3
- Wait at least 24–36 hours of dry weather with dropping humidity before attempting routes on the polished slate walls.
- If visiting tomorrow (Aug 8), limit activity to the most south-facing and exposed upper sections, and carefully test friction on every hold before committing.
- Deep water soloing remains an option regardless of rock surface conditions, but be aware the water is cold and ensure adequate spotters and safety.
Do Not Climb
35%
9 days ago
Hodge Close has received significant recent rainfall (28mm in the last 7 days including 18mm in the last 3 days), with light rain continuing today and more forecast tomorrow. The sheltered quarry bowl will be retaining moisture and polished slate surfaces are very likely still greasy — conditions are not suitable for climbing.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed quarry amphitheatre traps humidity and has very poor air circulation, meaning surface moisture lingers far longer than at open crags even though the slate is non-porous.
- Seepage from the quarry rim after the sustained wet spell (41mm in 28 days, concentrated in recent days) will persist for several days and can drip onto routes unpredictably.
- Polished quarried slate surfaces at Hodge Close are notably more slippery than natural slate — even residual dampness or high humidity condensation can dramatically reduce friction.
- The deep pool at the base means DWS remains an option if water temperature is tolerable, but trad routes on the walls should be avoided until surfaces are confirmed dry by touch.
Warnings
2
- Polished quarried slate at Hodge Close becomes treacherously slippery with even a film of moisture — falls on greasy slab routes can be uncontrolled and serious.
- Seepage from the quarry rim after this prolonged wet spell may persist for 3–4 days after rain stops, dripping onto routes that appear dry from below.
Reasoning
With 18mm of rain in the last three days (including 11.9mm on Aug 4 and 6.2mm on Aug 5), plus 0.9mm today and persistent humidity around 80–90%, the quarry surfaces will be wet or at best damp with active seepage from the rim.
Despite moderate westerly winds of 20–26 km/h, the sheltered quarry bowl receives minimal benefit from wind drying, and today's cloud cover (near 100% through the morning) limits solar evaporation — effective drying has barely begun.
Slate is non-porous so there is no risk of structural weakening, but the concern is entirely about surface friction on the polished quarried faces.
Mid-summer provides the best potential for recovery, but current temperatures (15–16°C) are below seasonal norms and the unsettled pattern with frequent showers is preventing any sustained drying window.
Contributing Factors
6
28mm in the last 7 days with 18mm concentrated in the last 3 days means the quarry surfaces are actively wet with rim seepage ongoing.
0.9mm of precipitation fell overnight and into the early morning, keeping surfaces wet and resetting any drying progress.
The enclosed amphitheatre has very poor air circulation, so even moderate regional winds do little to accelerate surface drying inside the bowl.
Average humidity of 79% over the last 7 days and 80% today inhibits evaporation and may cause condensation on cold slate surfaces.
Cloud breaks from midday onward with humidity dropping to 64–70% could begin some surface drying on south-facing walls this afternoon.
1.7mm forecast for August 7 will reset any drying progress achieved today, prolonging the wet spell.
Recommendations
3
- Wait for a sustained dry window of at least 2 full dry days before visiting, given the sheltered quarry's slow drying characteristics.
- If visiting for DWS only, conditions at the water surface are less friction-dependent, but be extremely cautious on approach scrambles and any traverses on polished slate.
- Monitor conditions closely from August 11 onward when a drier spell may finally allow sufficient drying — but physically check surfaces by touch before committing to routes.
Do Not Climb
90%
11 days ago
Hodge Close is currently wet from today's rain (8.1mm with showers through midday) and conditions will worsen dramatically tomorrow with 32.5mm forecast. The sheltered quarry bowl will not dry adequately between repeated rain events over the coming week, making polished slate surfaces dangerously greasy.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed amphitheatre shape traps humidity and prevents air circulation, meaning even after rain stops the quarry can remain damp for much longer than open crags nearby.
- Seepage from the quarry rim is fed by rain collecting on the plateau above and can persist for 2–3 days after significant rainfall, dripping onto routes across all aspects.
- Polished quarried slate at Hodge Close is notoriously slippery — even light condensation or high humidity can reduce friction to unsafe levels on smoother sections.
- Deep water soloing remains an option in wet conditions for those prepared for cold water, but trad and bouldering routes should be avoided when damp.
Warnings
3
- Polished quarried slate is extremely dangerous when wet — falls on greasy slate are sudden and unpredictable.
- Rim seepage will persist for days after tomorrow's heavy rain, dripping onto routes even when the sky appears clear.
- The quarry pool level may rise after heavy rain, potentially affecting access to lower starts and bouldering traverses.
Reasoning
The rock is currently wet from 8.1mm of rain today, with heavy showers through the morning and early afternoon, on top of a damp week (17.8mm in the last 7 days) and persistent high humidity averaging 79%.
The sheltered quarry bowl with poor air circulation will not dry meaningfully this afternoon despite a brief dry window, especially with humidity remaining above 83% and 100% cloud cover; tomorrow's 32.5mm deluge will reset any drying entirely.
Slate is non-porous so there is no structural weakening concern, but the safety risk from near-zero friction on wet polished quarried surfaces is severe.
Mid-summer temperatures are moderate but well below seasonal norms (15–19°C), and the persistent westerly weather pattern is delivering repeated Atlantic fronts with no sustained dry window in sight.
Contributing Factors
6
Over 8mm of rain fell today with showers persisting through early afternoon, leaving all surfaces thoroughly wet.
32.5mm forecast for tomorrow will saturate the quarry and feed rim seepage for days afterwards.
The enclosed amphitheatre traps humid air and prevents wind-assisted drying, extending moisture persistence well beyond open crags.
Humidity has averaged 79% over the past week and is forecast at 93% tomorrow, preventing effective evaporation even during dry spells.
Quarried slate surfaces become treacherously greasy with even light moisture, making any residual dampness a serious safety hazard.
Further significant rain is forecast on Aug 8 (9.8mm) and Aug 9 (12.3mm), preventing any sustained drying window over the next five days.
Recommendations
3
- Do not attempt trad climbing or bouldering at Hodge Close today or in the coming days — polished slate will be dangerously slippery.
- If visiting the area, consider deep water soloing only if you are experienced and prepared for cold water conditions, and check water levels are safe.
- Monitor forecasts for a sustained dry window of at least 2–3 days with lower humidity before planning a return; the quarry bowl needs extended dry weather to come into condition.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
55%
12 days ago
Recent rain (4.7mm on July 31, 3.9mm on Aug 1, and light showers overnight/early morning today) combined with Hodge Close's sheltered, humidity-trapping quarry bowl means surfaces may still be damp, particularly on north-facing walls and seepage lines. However, the afternoon today looks warm and dry (up to 23.8°C, humidity dropping to 46%) which could provide a brief window — but a significant wet spell is forecast from tomorrow onward.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The enclosed quarry amphitheatre traps humidity and limits air circulation, meaning even after 24–48 hours without significant rain the polished slate can retain a greasy film, especially in shaded corners.
- Seepage from the quarry rim fed by the recent wet spell (12mm over July 25–Aug 1) is likely still active on some lines and may persist for several more days.
- The south-facing upper walls will have had the best drying through the afternoon sun today, while north-facing walls deep in the bowl will be slowest to dry and most likely still greasy.
- Deep water soloing remains an option regardless of surface conditions, though water temperature will be cold — a wetsuit is advisable even in August.
Warnings
2
- Polished quarried slate at Hodge Close is extremely greasy when damp — even a thin moisture film invisible to the eye can cause unexpected slips; test friction thoroughly before committing.
- A prolonged wet spell begins tomorrow with 30mm+ forecast over 5 days; do not plan multi-day trips to this venue this week.
Reasoning
Light rain overnight (0.6mm at 04:00) and residual moisture from recent days (4.7mm Jul 31, 3.9mm Aug 1) mean the quarry surfaces likely started the day damp, though the afternoon dry spell with dropping humidity may allow south-facing walls to dry.
The sheltered quarry bowl severely limits wind-assisted drying despite moderate regional winds; however, the warm afternoon (23°C+, humidity 46%) with some sun penetration gives south and west-facing walls a reasonable chance of surface drying by mid-afternoon.
Slate is non-porous so there is no structural weakening concern, but the polished quarried surfaces become treacherously slippery with even a thin moisture film.
Mid-summer conditions are broadly favourable with long daylight hours and warm temperatures, though the Lake District is entering a notably unsettled spell with heavy rain forecast for the coming week.
Contributing Factors
6
Rainfall of 4.7mm (Jul 31), 3.9mm (Aug 1), and light showers overnight today total roughly 10mm over 3 days, keeping the sheltered quarry bowl persistently moist.
Humidity drops to 46% with temperatures reaching 23.8°C and dry conditions from late morning through early evening, offering a potential window for south-facing walls.
The enclosed amphitheatre shape severely limits air circulation, meaning regional wind has little drying effect inside the bowl and humidity lingers.
The cumulative 23mm+ over the past month with recent pulses means water percolating through cracks above the quarry rim is likely feeding seepage lines on multiple walls.
Over 30mm is forecast over the next 5 days starting tomorrow, meaning any window that exists today will close and conditions will deteriorate significantly.
Quarried slate at Hodge Close is notably polished and loses friction dramatically even with light dampness, making marginal conditions genuinely dangerous.
Recommendations
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- If visiting today, arrive for the early-to-mid afternoon window (12:00–18:00) and carefully test friction on south-facing walls before committing to anything above safe fall height.
- Avoid north-facing walls and any routes with visible seepage or sheen — the polished slate will be dangerously slippery.
- Consider postponing trad climbing plans until after the incoming wet spell clears; deep water soloing with a wetsuit is a viable alternative if conditions are too greasy for roped routes.
Climbing Outlook