Condition Analysis
AI-powered assessment using site data and 14-day weather history
Crookrise has had 4 consecutive dry days following only trace precipitation (0.3mm on Aug 10), with warm temperatures up to 30°C, low humidity (51–66%), and consistent wind on a south-facing exposed edge — conditions are genuinely dry. Enjoy the climbing today and tomorrow, but rain is forecast from August 17 onwards.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Crookrise's south-facing aspect and exposed moorland position mean it benefits from excellent solar radiation and wind exposure, making it one of the faster-drying gritstone venues in the Yorkshire Dales area.
- The 3.5km walk-in from Embsay Reservoir means committing to the approach — check forecasts carefully before setting out, especially with the rain arriving mid-week.
- As a BMC-owned crag with free access, there's a strong community expectation to respect wet-rock ethics and avoid climbing on damp gritstone to protect the boulder problems.
- Some lower boulders and north-facing faces of individual blocks may retain moisture longer than the main south-facing edge, so inspect these before climbing.
Reasoning
The last meaningful precipitation was 2.4mm on Aug 5, over 9 days ago, and only trace amounts (0.1–0.3mm) fell on Aug 9–10; four fully dry days with excellent drying conditions mean the rock should be thoroughly dry internally.
The combination of south-facing aspect, exposed position with consistent 19–22 km/h winds, warm temperatures peaking at 30°C on Aug 13, and low humidity (51–66% over recent days) has provided far more than adequate drying time — well beyond the 24–48 hour minimum for light rain.
With extended drying and no significant recent saturation, structural risk from internal moisture is negligible; the gritstone should be at full compressive strength.
Mid-August is prime summer climbing season with long days, warm temperatures, and no freeze-thaw concerns; conditions are optimal for gritstone bouldering.
Contributing Factors
5
Four consecutive fully dry days following only trace precipitation, with the last significant rain (2.4mm) falling 9 days ago on Aug 5.
South-facing aspect has received strong summer sun, including a 30°C day on Aug 13, maximising evaporative drying.
Exposed moorland position with sustained winds of 18–23 km/h over recent days has significantly accelerated moisture removal from the rock surface and pores.
Humidity dropped to 51–66% over Aug 11–13, providing a strong vapour pressure gradient for effective drying.
Moderate rain (2.1mm) is forecast for Aug 17, followed by heavy rain (15.3mm) on Aug 18, which will end the current good spell.
Recommendations
3
- Climb today and tomorrow with confidence — conditions are excellent for gritstone bouldering at Crookrise.
- Plan your visit before August 17 as rain is forecast from mid-week, with heavy precipitation (15mm+) expected on August 18 that will require substantial drying time afterwards.
- Carry a soft boar's-hair brush and minimise chalk use to help preserve this BMC-owned crag for the community.
Previous Analyses
Likely Safe to Climb
90%
2 days ago
Crookrise has had three fully dry days following only trace moisture (0.3mm on Aug 10), with today bringing exceptional drying conditions — 30°C, 49% humidity, and good wind on a south-facing, exposed edge. The rock should be thoroughly dry and in excellent condition for climbing.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The 3.5km walk-in across open moorland means you'll be fully exposed to sun on a 30°C day — carry plenty of water and sun protection.
- South-facing aspect and exposed position make Crookrise one of the fastest-drying gritstone venues in the Dales, often climbable when other crags are still damp.
- The crag is BMC-owned with free access, but the moorland setting means conditions can change quickly — check forecasts before committing to the walk-in.
- Heavy rain (33mm) is forecast for August 17th which will require at least 48–72 hours of drying afterwards; plan sessions before then.
Reasoning
The last meaningful precipitation was 2.4mm on Aug 5 (8 days ago), with only trace amounts since (0.4mm on Aug 6, 0.1mm on Aug 9, 0.3mm on Aug 10) — the rock will be fully dry internally.
Three consecutive dry days with improving conditions culminating in today's 30°C, 49% humidity, and moderate southerly wind on this south-facing exposed edge provide outstanding evaporative drying far exceeding what is needed for trace moisture.
With extended drying and no significant recent saturation, compressive strength will be at its full dry baseline with no structural risk from residual moisture.
Mid-August conditions are ideal for gritstone climbing — long days, warm temperatures, and no freeze-thaw concern; this is peak season for the crag.
Contributing Factors
5
Three fully dry days since the last trace precipitation (0.3mm on Aug 10), and eight days since any meaningful rain (2.4mm on Aug 5), providing ample drying time.
Today's 30°C max, 49% average humidity, and moderate southerly wind create exceptional evaporative conditions for this south-facing crag.
The south-facing orientation and exposed moorland position maximise solar radiation and wind exposure, making Crookrise one of the fastest-drying gritstone edges in the area.
Only 0.4mm in the last 7 days and 13.3mm over 28 days represents a relatively dry period, meaning the rock has not been deeply saturated.
A significant 33.3mm rainfall event is forecast for August 17th, which will require 48–72+ hours of drying before the crag is safe again.
Recommendations
3
- Conditions are excellent today and through to Aug 16 — make the most of the dry window before the heavy rain forecast on Aug 17.
- Carry plenty of water for the 3.5km walk-in as temperatures will be very high today; consider climbing in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
- After the Aug 17 deluge (33mm forecast), allow at least 48–72 hours of dry weather before returning.
Likely Safe to Climb
85%
3 days ago
Crookrise has had two full dry days following only trace precipitation (0.3mm on Aug 10), with today bringing warm temperatures up to 27.5°C and low humidity (34–55%) on the south-facing, exposed edge. The rock should be well dried and conditions are good for climbing this afternoon and evening.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- The south-facing aspect and exposed moorland position mean Crookrise dries faster than most gritstone edges, particularly effective with today's warm SE breeze and sunshine.
- The recent wet spell (Aug 4–6 saw ~4.8mm total) was followed by a mixed period with only trace amounts; the most recent measurable rain was just 0.3mm on Aug 10, which is negligible.
- The 3.5km walk-in from Embsay Reservoir means conditions can change during the approach — check the forecast before committing, especially with rain returning on Aug 14.
- Seepage can linger at the base of some problems even when upper rock is dry; check landings and lower holds carefully after the recent unsettled spell.
Reasoning
The last meaningful rain was 2.4mm on Aug 5, over a week ago; since then only trace amounts (0.1–0.4mm) have fallen, with the most recent 0.3mm on Aug 10 — two full dry days ago — which is insufficient to meaningfully wet the rock.
Two days of dry weather following a trace 0.3mm, combined with today's 27.5°C peak, 34% afternoon humidity, and the south-facing exposed aspect, provide excellent drying conditions that far exceed what is needed to evaporate any residual surface moisture.
Structural risk is very low; the rock has not been subjected to sustained heavy wetting recently, and the prolonged drying period since the Aug 4–6 rain (6+ days) means internal moisture levels should be well below any concern threshold.
Mid-summer conditions are ideal for gritstone climbing, with long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and no freeze-thaw risk; this is the optimal season for Crookrise.
Contributing Factors
5
The last precipitation was a negligible 0.3mm on Aug 10, and the last significant rain (2.4mm) was over a week ago on Aug 5, providing ample drying time.
Today reaches 27.5°C with afternoon humidity dropping to 34%, creating excellent evaporation conditions on the south-facing rock.
The south-facing orientation catches full sun and the exposed moorland position ensures consistent wind, both significantly accelerating drying.
Wind at 22.7 km/h from the SE will blow directly onto the south-facing crag, actively moving moist air away from the rock surface.
Light rain (0.7mm) is forecast for Aug 14, with heavier rain of 4.9mm on Aug 16 and 13.6mm on Aug 17, closing the current dry window.
Recommendations
3
- Climb today and tomorrow (Aug 13) for the best conditions — afternoon sessions will benefit from warm temperatures and low humidity.
- Avoid climbing after the rain forecast for Aug 14 until sufficient drying time has passed, especially after the heavier rain expected Aug 16–17.
- Check the base of problems for any lingering seepage from the recent unsettled period, particularly on lower or more sheltered sections of the edge.
Likely Safe to Climb
88%
5 days ago
Crookrise has had four consecutive dry days since the last light rain (0.4mm on Aug 6), and the most significant precipitation before that was only 2.4mm on Aug 5. With the south-facing, exposed aspect and moderate wind, the rock should be thoroughly dry by now, and a long dry spell is forecast ahead.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Crookrise's south-facing, exposed moorland position means it benefits from excellent solar drying and consistent wind, making it one of the faster-drying gritstone venues in the Yorkshire Dales area.
- The 3.5km walk-in from Embsay Reservoir means conditions cannot be easily rechecked — commit to a session based on confident assessment before setting off.
- At 320m altitude, morning dew and overnight humidity can be high (today's early hours reached 95% humidity), so surfaces may feel slightly damp first thing — allow the sun to hit the crag before climbing.
- Recent rainfall has been light and scattered (only 12.9mm over 28 days), so there is minimal risk of deep saturation or persistent seepage lines.
Reasoning
The last meaningful rain was 2.4mm on Aug 5, followed by only 0.4mm on Aug 6, and the rock has had four full dry days since — well beyond the 24–48 hour minimum for light rain.
South-facing aspect with sustained winds of 18–25 km/h over the drying period, combined with summer temperatures around 16–21°C, provide excellent drying conditions that comfortably exceed what is needed for the light rainfall amounts involved.
With cumulative recent rainfall being very light and ample drying time, internal moisture levels should be negligible and there is no meaningful risk of hold breakage or structural damage.
Mid-summer conditions with long daylight hours and warm temperatures are ideal for gritstone climbing; no freeze-thaw risk whatsoever at this time of year.
Contributing Factors
5
Four consecutive dry days since the last trace of rain (0.4mm on Aug 6) far exceeds the minimum drying window needed for such light precipitation.
The south-facing, wind-exposed position maximises solar radiation and airflow, making Crookrise one of the quickest-drying gritstone crags in the region.
Only 4.8mm in the last 7 days and 12.9mm over 28 days — the rock was never deeply saturated to begin with.
Average humidity of 79% over the past week is slightly elevated but not enough to impede drying given the strong wind and good aspect.
Zero precipitation is forecast for the next six days with warming temperatures, ensuring conditions will only improve.
Recommendations
3
- Conditions are good — head up and enjoy the bouldering, though allow the morning sun to warm and dry any overnight dew before pulling on.
- The afternoon today (from ~11:00 onward) offers the best window with dropping humidity (under 55%) and clearing skies.
- With the extended dry, warm spell forecast this week, Crookrise will be in excellent condition for the foreseeable future — plan sessions accordingly.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
70%
5 days ago
Today saw a trace of rain (0.2mm) and humidity is elevated at 81%, but the south-facing, exposed aspect of Crookrise means drying should be rapid. Tomorrow begins a promising dry spell with lower humidity, so conditions should improve quickly — but the recent pattern of frequent light showers and high humidity over the past week warrants a visual check before climbing.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Crookrise has a south-facing aspect and exposed moorland position, making it one of the faster-drying gritstone venues in the Yorkshire Dales — ideal for quick recovery after light showers.
- The 3.5km walk-in from Embsay Reservoir means committing significant time before you can assess rock conditions on arrival; checking the ground moisture at the crag base is essential.
- Recent weeks have seen frequent light precipitation events (0.1–4.3mm on multiple days since late July), keeping background moisture levels elevated despite no single heavy downpour.
- As a BMC-owned crag with free access, there are no access restrictions, but the ethics of avoiding damp gritstone are especially important here to preserve these community-owned routes.
Warnings
1
- The surface may appear dry while internal moisture from repeated recent showers persists — apply the touch test and check base-of-crag ground moisture before committing to climb.
Reasoning
Today's 0.2mm trace rain on top of a week with 5.4mm cumulative precipitation and average 79% humidity means the rock likely has residual internal moisture, though the amounts are individually small.
The south-facing aspect and exposed position with 22 km/h westerly winds today provide strong drying potential, but the persistent high humidity (81% today) limits net evaporation and slows the drying process.
The repeated wetting-drying cycles from frequent light showers over the past two weeks keep the rock in a marginal moisture state where surface-dry gritstone may still retain enough internal moisture to weaken holds.
Mid-summer temperatures (~15–22°C) and long daylight hours are favourable for drying, though the recent cool spell (averages around 14°C) has been below seasonal norms, slightly slowing evaporation.
Contributing Factors
6
0.2mm recorded today resets the consecutive dry day count to zero, though such a trace amount on exposed south-facing rock is marginal.
Multiple small precipitation events over the past two weeks (Aug 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and today) have kept background moisture elevated despite no single heavy event.
The south-facing orientation and fully exposed moorland position maximise solar drying and wind exposure, making Crookrise one of the fastest-drying gritstone venues.
Average humidity of 79% over the past week with 81% today significantly reduces net evaporation rates compared to ideal drying conditions.
Consistent winds of 18–31 km/h over recent days actively strip moisture from the rock surface and aid drying considerably.
A sustained dry spell is forecast from tomorrow through at least August 15th with dropping humidity, which will steadily improve conditions.
Recommendations
3
- Wait until tomorrow (August 10th) at the earliest, when a full dry day with lower humidity (73%) and moderate wind should have cleared today's trace moisture.
- On arrival, check the ground at the base of the crag — if the soil and rock debris are not completely dry, the rock likely retains internal moisture.
- Prioritise upper, well-exposed faces and avoid any sections with visible seepage, green streaks, or dampness at the base of the crag.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
70%
6 days ago
Crookrise has had two full dry days following a period of light but frequent showers, and today looks dry with good drying conditions. The south-facing, exposed aspect aids drying significantly, but recent humidity has been moderate-to-high and the cumulative precipitation over the past week (5.2mm across several small events) means some internal moisture may linger — a visual check on arrival is warranted.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Crookrise's south-facing aspect and exposed moorland position mean it benefits from strong solar radiation and consistent wind, making it one of the faster-drying gritstone venues in the Dales.
- The 3.5km walk-in from Embsay Reservoir means committing to a visit without being able to easily retreat — check conditions carefully at the crag before climbing.
- The base of the crag can retain moorland moisture from boggy ground, especially after the recent unsettled spell; check the ground at the foot of the boulders as a proxy for rock moisture.
- Being BMC-owned with free access, there are no restrictions, but the wild moorland setting means weather can change rapidly at 320m — be prepared for sudden showers.
Warnings
1
- Rain is forecast for tomorrow (Aug 9th, 1.1mm) which will reset drying — plan accordingly if visiting this weekend.
Reasoning
The most significant recent rain was 2.4mm on August 5th and 2.0mm on August 4th, with a further 0.4mm on August 6th; two full dry days have followed with declining humidity (74% yesterday, 69% today), but the rock may still hold some internal moisture from the cluster of light rain events over the past week.
Two dry days with moderate temperatures (16–21°C), reasonable wind (~20 km/h), and the south-facing exposed aspect provide good drying conditions — for the light amounts involved (individual events all under 2.5mm), surface drying should be complete and internal drying well advanced, though not guaranteed.
Structural risk is low given the small precipitation amounts involved and summer temperatures, but gritstone is porous and any residual internal moisture from repeated wetting over recent weeks could reduce hold integrity at a marginal level.
Mid-summer conditions are broadly favourable with long daylight hours and warm temperatures aiding evaporation; no freeze-thaw risk at this time of year.
Contributing Factors
6
Two consecutive dry days since the last precipitation (0.4mm on Aug 6th) have allowed meaningful drying time for the light amounts involved.
The south-facing orientation and exposed moorland position maximise solar radiation and wind exposure, significantly accelerating drying.
Multiple small rain events over the past two weeks (12.9mm across 28 days, 5.2mm in last 7 days) have repeatedly re-wetted the rock, potentially maintaining internal moisture levels.
Average humidity over the last 7 days was 77%, with several days at 83–91%, which slows evaporation and drying.
Consistent winds of 18–31 km/h over recent days help move moist air from the rock surface and accelerate drying.
Temperatures around 14–21°C are warm enough to support reasonable evaporation rates, though not exceptional.
Recommendations
3
- Visually inspect the rock surface and check the ground at the base of the boulders — if the moorland ground feels boggy or damp, the rock likely retains internal moisture.
- Prioritise upper sections of boulders and any overhanging features, which will have dried fastest; avoid low slab problems or areas near seepage lines.
- If climbing today, carry a towel and be prepared to walk away if any dampness is detected on holds — the 3.5km walk-in makes this a significant commitment, so consider waiting for the drier spell forecast from August 11th.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
65%
7 days ago
Recent days have seen scattered light rain (2.4mm on Aug 5, 0.4mm on Aug 6) with high humidity, and today is only the first fully dry day. While the south-facing, exposed aspect and decent wind will aid drying, the rock may not yet be fully dry internally — a visual check on arrival is strongly advised.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Crookrise is BMC-owned and freely accessible, but the 3.5km walk-in from Embsay Reservoir means committing time before you can assess conditions on the rock.
- The south-facing aspect and exposed moorland position are highly favourable for drying, making this one of the faster-drying gritstone venues in the Yorkshire Dales.
- Moorland seepage can affect the base of the crag and lower problems even when upper rock appears dry — check the ground at the crag foot as a moisture indicator.
- Recent weeks have seen repeated small rain events (12.9mm over 28 days) keeping background moisture levels elevated despite no single heavy downpour.
Warnings
1
- Only one full dry day has elapsed since the last rain; gritstone can appear surface-dry while still dangerously weakened internally — do not rely on visual appearance alone.
Reasoning
The most recent meaningful rain was 2.4mm on Aug 5 followed by 0.4mm on Aug 6, with today (Aug 7) being the first fully dry day — the rock likely still holds some internal moisture given only ~24 hours of drying.
The south-facing aspect, exposed position, and moderate westerly winds (~20–25 km/h) are favourable for drying, but humidity has averaged 79% over the past week, slowing evaporation rates below what the aspect and wind would otherwise deliver.
With only light rain totals (2.4mm + 0.4mm) and summer temperatures, structural risk from internal saturation is moderate rather than severe, but gritstone remains vulnerable to grain loosening even at low moisture levels.
Mid-summer conditions with temperatures around 14–16°C and no freeze-thaw risk; longer daylight hours and solar angle favour drying on this south-facing crag.
Contributing Factors
5
2.4mm fell on Aug 5 and 0.4mm on Aug 6, meaning the rock has had barely one full dry day to begin drying internally.
The south-facing orientation and exposed moorland setting maximise solar radiation and wind exposure, making this one of the fastest-drying gritstone crags in the area.
Average humidity over the past week has been 79%, with several days above 85%, which significantly slows evaporative drying even with good wind.
Winds of 19–31 km/h over recent days help move moist air away from the rock surface, aiding drying despite the high humidity.
The past 28 days have seen 12.9mm spread across multiple small rain events, keeping background rock moisture elevated rather than allowing a sustained drying window.
Recommendations
3
- Wait until tomorrow (Aug 8) for the best chance of dry rock — a second dry day with lower forecast humidity (69%) and warmer temperatures (21.6°C) should allow adequate drying from the light recent rain.
- If visiting today, perform the ground-moisture test at the crag base before climbing: if the soil or rock base feels damp, the rock is likely still holding internal moisture.
- Use soft boar's-hair brushes only and minimise chalk use — as a BMC-owned site, good stewardship is especially important.
Do Not Climb
60%
9 days ago
Recent days have seen repeated light rain events (4.3mm on July 26, 2.8mm on Aug 5, 1.9mm today) with persistently high humidity averaging 78% over the last week, meaning the rock has had no sustained dry window to properly dry out. Despite Crookrise's south-facing aspect and good wind exposure, the lack of consecutive dry days and today's ongoing drizzle make conditions unsuitable right now.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Crookrise's south-facing aspect and exposed position on the moor mean it benefits from strong wind-driven drying, but the persistent NE-to-W airflow has been carrying moisture and high humidity, limiting effective evaporation.
- The 3.5km walk-in across open moorland means conditions at the crag may differ from the car park — the ground and peat around the base are a reliable indicator of internal rock moisture.
- Being BMC-owned with free access, there is a strong ethical responsibility to protect this communal asset by not climbing on damp gritstone.
- The scattered boulders at Crookrise have variable drainage — some sit on peat which retains moisture and wicks dampness upward into the rock from below.
Warnings
2
- Do not climb today — rain fell this morning and the rock is wet.
- The surface may appear dry before the interior has adequately dried; gritstone loses significant strength at very low internal moisture levels.
Reasoning
The rock has received repeated light precipitation over the past 10 days (totalling ~7.9mm in the last week alone) with no period of more than two consecutive fully dry days, so internal moisture levels are likely elevated despite modest individual rain totals.
Although the south-facing aspect and strong westerly winds (20–32 km/h) promote surface drying, average humidity of 78% and temperatures around 14–16°C severely limit net evaporation, meaning effective drying between rain events has been minimal.
Gritstone at this level of repeated wetting without adequate drying will have reduced compressive strength — even apparently dry surfaces may mask internal moisture that weakens holds and accelerates grain loosening.
Mid-summer should provide the best drying conditions of the year, but this has been an unusually cool and damp spell for August; freeze-thaw is not a concern at current temperatures.
Contributing Factors
6
Multiple small rain events over the past 10 days (4.3mm Jul 26, 2.8mm Aug 5, 1.9mm today) have kept the rock repeatedly wetted with no adequate drying window.
Today received 1.9mm of rain, resetting any drying progress; the rock has not had two full dry days since July 31.
Average humidity of 78% over the last week with peaks above 90% severely limits evaporative drying even when it isn't raining.
The south-facing orientation and exposed moorland position give Crookrise above-average solar radiation and wind exposure, which are the strongest drying advantages available.
Winds of 20–32 km/h over recent days help move moist air away from the rock surface, partially compensating for high humidity.
Temperatures of 14–16°C are well below summer averages for this altitude, slowing evaporation rates compared to typical August conditions.
Recommendations
3
- Wait for at least 48 hours of fully dry weather with humidity below 75% before visiting — the forecast suggests August 9 may be the earliest realistic window.
- On arrival, check the peat and ground at the base of the boulders: if the ground is damp, the rock interior is almost certainly still holding moisture.
- If you do visit on a marginal day, stick to the most exposed and overhanging problems which shed water fastest, and abandon the session if any dampness is detected on holds.
Do Not Climb
92%
11 days ago
Crookrise is currently wet and unsuitable for climbing. Rain today (4.3mm forecast, with showers from mid-afternoon onward) follows a damp spell over recent days, and tomorrow brings heavy rain (12.7mm), meaning the rock will not have adequate drying time for several days.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Crookrise's south-facing, exposed aspect is excellent for drying, but the current spell of frequent light rain and high humidity (averaging 78% over the past week) is preventing the rock from fully drying out between showers.
- The 3.5km walk-in from Embsay Reservoir means conditions can change during the approach — check forecasts carefully before committing.
- As a BMC-owned crag with quality gritstone bouldering, climbers have a direct responsibility to protect the rock; climbing on damp grit here causes irreversible hold damage.
- The moorland setting at 320m means mist and cloud can hold moisture against the rock even when it's not actively raining, as seen with today's 100% cloud cover through the morning.
Warnings
2
- Climbing on wet or damp gritstone causes permanent, irreversible damage to holds — please do not climb even if the surface appears dry.
- Tomorrow's 12.7mm of rain will thoroughly saturate the rock; internal moisture will persist well beyond any surface drying.
Reasoning
The rock has received intermittent light precipitation over recent days (0.8mm on Aug 1, 0.4mm on Aug 3, and 4.3mm today) with high humidity averaging 78–89%, meaning it has had no sustained dry period to fully dry out internally.
Despite the south-facing exposed aspect, the frequent small rain events and persistently high humidity (often above 85%) have prevented effective drying — the last truly dry spell of consecutive days ended around July 30.
Gritstone that has been repeatedly wetted without adequate drying is at elevated risk of grain loosening and hold breakage; the cumulative moisture from several recent rain events compounds this risk.
Summer temperatures are warm enough to aid drying when conditions allow, but the current unsettled pattern with cool temperatures (14–17°C) and high humidity is limiting evaporation rates significantly.
Contributing Factors
6
Today's forecast includes 4.3mm of rain, with showers from 15:00 onward saturating the rock surface and penetrating internally.
Tomorrow (Aug 5) brings 12.7mm of rain at 94% humidity, which will thoroughly saturate the gritstone.
Intermittent rain on July 25–29, Aug 1, and Aug 3 has kept the rock in a semi-saturated state with no sustained dry window.
Average humidity of 78% over the past week with frequent readings above 85% severely limits evaporation and drying.
The south-facing, wind-exposed position gives Crookrise the best possible drying characteristics for when dry weather eventually arrives.
Further rain is forecast on Aug 6 (1.1mm), Aug 8 (0.7mm), and Aug 9 (6.2mm), preventing any prolonged dry period.
Recommendations
3
- Do not climb today or in the next few days — the rock is wet from today's rain and will be further saturated by tomorrow's heavy rainfall.
- Monitor the forecast beyond August 9; you will need at least 48 hours of dry weather with low humidity before conditions are suitable.
- If visiting the area, use the time for the excellent moorland walking instead — the Embsay Crag and surrounding moor are worth the walk regardless.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
60%
12 days ago
Recent light rain (0.8mm on Aug 1, 1.6mm today mostly overnight) combined with a promising dry, warm afternoon window today means the south-facing, exposed rock may have dried sufficiently for a brief session this afternoon — but conditions should be verified on arrival. A wet spell is forecast from tomorrow onwards, making today the last realistic window for several days.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Crookrise is south-facing and fully exposed on open moorland, meaning it benefits from strong solar drying and wind exposure — among the fastest-drying gritstone venues in the Yorkshire Dales area.
- The 3.5km walk-in from Embsay Reservoir means committing significant time before you can assess rock conditions on site; if damp, the trip is wasted.
- The crag received 4.3mm on July 26 and scattered light showers since, so while no single event was heavy, cumulative moisture over the past week (~3mm in 7 days) in moderately humid conditions means some residual dampness is possible.
- BMC-owned crag with free access — no restrictions, but the ethical responsibility to protect this irreplaceable gritstone resource is paramount.
Warnings
2
- Rain is forecast from approximately 20:00 tonight — finish climbing and begin the walk-out well before then.
- The rock may appear surface-dry this afternoon while retaining internal moisture from repeated recent light showers; if any holds feel cool or slightly greasy, stop climbing immediately.
Reasoning
The last significant rain was 4.3mm on July 26 (8 days ago), followed by trace amounts (0.5–0.8mm) on July 27–28 and Aug 1, plus 1.6mm today mostly in overnight/early hours — the rock likely carried some residual moisture into today but the warm, dry afternoon (23°C, 40% humidity, ~20km/h wind) should have driven surface and near-surface drying on this south-facing aspect.
Today's afternoon conditions — clear skies, 20–23°C, humidity dropping to 40%, moderate easterly wind on a south-facing exposed edge — provide excellent drying for several hours, likely sufficient to dry the overnight trace precipitation, though deeper moisture from recent days may linger.
Structural risk is moderate; no heavy single rain event recently, but the cumulative light wetting over the past week means internal moisture levels could still be slightly elevated, posing some risk of grain loosening on heavily stressed holds.
Mid-summer conditions are generally favourable with long daylight hours and warm temperatures; no freeze-thaw risk at this time of year.
Contributing Factors
6
Clear skies from 11:00–19:00 with temps reaching 23°C and humidity dropping to 40% provide an excellent drying window on this south-facing crag.
Approximately 1.3mm fell between midnight and 05:00 this morning, wetting the rock surface and requiring several hours of drying.
Light but repeated rainfall events over the past week (3mm in 7 days) mean the rock has not had a sustained multi-day dry spell to fully dry out internally.
The south-facing, fully exposed moorland position maximises solar radiation and wind exposure, giving Crookrise among the best drying characteristics of any Yorkshire gritstone crag.
6mm forecast for Aug 4 followed by further rain on Aug 5–8 means today is the last viable climbing window for at least 5 days.
Sustained winds of 19–24 km/h today help move moist air away from the rock surface and accelerate evaporation.
Recommendations
3
- If heading out today, aim for mid-to-late afternoon (14:00–18:00) when the rock has had maximum drying time; perform a thorough touch-test on multiple holds and check the base of the crag for dampness before climbing.
- Avoid problems at the base of the crag or in any recessed/sheltered sections where moisture may persist longer.
- Do not plan climbing from tomorrow (Aug 4) onwards — a sustained wet spell is forecast and the rock will need at least 48 hours of dry weather after it ends to be climbable again.
Climbing Outlook