Condition Analysis
AI-powered assessment using site data and 14-day weather history
Five consecutive dry days with warm temperatures (up to 30°C) and moderate-to-good winds have provided excellent drying conditions since the last light rain on 2026-08-09 (1.8mm). Despite the NW aspect, the combination of summer warmth, low-ish humidity, and consistent SW/W winds at this exposed summit should have dried the rock thoroughly.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Simonside's summit ridge at 430m is frequently in cloud, which can deposit surface moisture even on rain-free days — check for mist on the approach.
- The NW aspect receives virtually no direct sun, so drying relies almost entirely on wind and ambient temperature rather than solar heating.
- The exposed position means SW/W winds (dominant recently) will hit the crag face effectively, which is the primary drying mechanism at this venue.
- The long walk-in (30+ minutes) means committing to the venue — consider checking weather radar and cloud base forecasts before setting off.
Reasoning
The last meaningful rain was 1.8mm on Aug 9, followed by 5 full dry days with warm temperatures peaking at 30°C and consistent winds of 12–20 km/h — this is well beyond the 24–48 hour minimum for light rain.
Despite the NW aspect limiting direct sun, the exposed position with sustained SW/W winds at 12–24 km/h and summer temperatures averaging 17–30°C over the drying period provides strong evaporative drying, comfortably exceeding the two-day rule of thumb.
With only 1.8mm of rain five days ago and a prolonged warm spell, internal moisture levels should be very low and structural risk from weakened holds is minimal.
Mid-August is peak season for Simonside — the warmest and driest time of year, and well within the recommended May–September climbing window.
Contributing Factors
6
5 consecutive dry days since only 1.8mm of rain on Aug 9 far exceeds the 24–48 hour minimum for light precipitation on sandstone.
Temperatures have ranged from 18–30°C over the drying period, strongly promoting evaporation even on a shaded NW face.
Sustained winds of 12–24 km/h from SW/W directions directly impact this exposed NW-facing crag, providing the primary drying mechanism.
The NW-facing aspect receives minimal direct sunlight, meaning solar drying is negligible and the crag relies on wind and ambient warmth.
At 430m, Simonside is frequently in cloud which can deposit surface moisture even on nominally dry days, though current humidity (66–77%) suggests this is unlikely today.
Average humidity of 75% over the past week is not ideal but is adequate for drying when combined with wind and warmth in summer.
Recommendations
3
- Conditions today and tomorrow look excellent — prioritise these two days as rain is forecast from Aug 17.
- Check the cloud base before the long walk-in; if Simonside is in cloud, surface moisture will make holds slippery regardless of drying state.
- Focus on the most wind-exposed problems which will be driest; any sheltered recesses or lower sections may retain residual dampness.
Previous Analyses
Likely Safe to Climb
82%
2 days ago
Four consecutive dry days with warm temperatures (up to 30°C today), moderate-to-good wind, and dropping humidity provide strong drying conditions. The last meaningful rain was 1.8mm on August 9th, and conditions have been excellent for drying since, making the rock likely dry for climbing today.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Simonside's NW aspect at 430m means it receives minimal direct sun, so drying relies heavily on wind and ambient temperature rather than solar heating.
- The summit ridge is frequently in cloud even on otherwise fine days — mist contact can re-wet the rock surface without any recorded precipitation, so check for cloud base on arrival.
- Today's hourly forecast shows 100% cloud cover from 13:00–15:00 and again 17:00–18:00 at what may be summit level; if the crag is in cloud, surface moisture could accumulate despite no rain.
- The 30+ minute walk-in means conditions can change during the approach — carry layers and be prepared to turn back if cloud descends onto the ridge.
Warnings
2
- If the summit is visibly in cloud on approach, the rock may have a film of mist moisture — test surfaces carefully before committing to routes.
- Rain forecast from August 16–18 will reset drying; plan around this window.
Reasoning
The last significant rain was 7.4mm on August 4th (9 days ago) followed by only trace amounts (1.6mm on the 5th, 0.3mm on the 6th), then the most recent light wetting of 1.8mm on August 9th — four full dry days with warm temperatures should have thoroughly dried the rock.
Despite the NW aspect limiting direct sun, sustained SW winds of 12–24 km/h over the past four days combined with temperatures reaching 18–30°C and humidity averaging 75% provide very effective evaporative drying for a fully exposed summit crag.
With four days of drying after only 1.8mm of rain, internal moisture levels should be well below the threshold for significant strength reduction, and freeze-thaw is not a concern in August.
Mid-August is within Simonside's optimal climbing season (May–September), with long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and low freeze-thaw risk.
Contributing Factors
6
Four consecutive dry days since the last light rain (1.8mm on Aug 9) comfortably exceeds the 24–48 hour minimum for light rain.
Temperatures reaching 18–30°C over the drying period significantly accelerate evaporation from the rock.
Sustained winds of 12–24 km/h across an exposed summit ridge are highly effective at removing surface moisture.
The NW-facing aspect receives minimal direct sunlight, meaning drying depends on wind and temperature rather than solar radiation.
100% cloud cover forecast at midday–afternoon could indicate cloud sitting on the 430m summit, potentially depositing mist moisture on the rock.
Average humidity of 75% over recent days is moderate — not ideal but not prohibitive for drying, especially with good wind.
Recommendations
3
- Climb today with confidence but check the rock surface on arrival — if the summit is in cloud and surfaces feel damp from mist, wait for the cloud to lift before climbing.
- Prioritise the morning window (08:00–12:00) when humidity is lowest and cloud cover minimal; afternoon cloud may bring mist to the summit.
- Take advantage of the excellent conditions over the next two days (Aug 14–15) before rain returns on Aug 16–17.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
55%
3 days ago
Recent scattered light rain (1.8mm on Aug 9, trace amounts on Aug 11 and today) combined with Simonside's NW aspect, high altitude, and persistent cloud cover means the rock may not be fully dry internally despite warm temperatures and moderate wind. An on-site assessment is essential before committing to climb, particularly on sheltered or lower sections.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- At 430m with NW aspect, Simonside is frequently in cloud even on otherwise fine days — mist condensation can keep the rock surface damp independently of rainfall.
- The exposed summit ridge position means SW winds (dominant recently) will be hitting the crag effectively, which significantly aids drying on wind-exposed faces.
- The long walk-in (30+ minutes) means conditions can change during the approach — cloud may roll in at summit level even when the valley is clear.
- The April condition report noted that wind-exposed and south-facing problems dried first while sheltered sections stayed damp — expect the same pattern now with recent trace precipitation.
Warnings
2
- Today's 0.2mm rain forecast around 19:00 and rising evening humidity (84–95%) mean conditions will deteriorate rapidly from late afternoon — plan to finish climbing early.
- Cloud envelopment at 430m is likely given 100% cloud cover in forecasts; if the crag is in mist on arrival, the rock will be surface-wet and should not be climbed.
Reasoning
Light rain on Aug 9 (1.8mm) followed by only trace amounts (0.1mm Aug 11, 0.2mm today) means the rock has had roughly 2–3 days of near-dry weather, but the consecutive dry-day count is technically zero and average humidity of 77% over the last week has limited evaporative drying.
Moderate-to-strong SW winds (13–24 km/h) over the past three days have been the primary drying agent given the NW aspect receives negligible direct sun; wind-exposed faces should be substantially dried from the light rain events, but sheltered alcoves and lower sections will lag behind.
With only light recent precipitation totals and summer temperatures, internal saturation is unlikely to be severe, but the persistent high humidity at altitude means some residual moisture risk remains — hold breakage risk is low-to-moderate rather than negligible.
Mid-summer conditions are the best window for Simonside; warm temperatures (15–27°C) and longer days provide adequate drying potential, though this site remains marginal even in summer due to its altitude and aspect.
Contributing Factors
6
1.8mm fell on Aug 9 with trace amounts on Aug 11 and today (0.2mm forecast at 19:00), meaning the rock has not had a sustained fully dry period.
Winds of 13–32 km/h from the SW over recent days will have driven significant evaporation from exposed faces on this highly exposed summit ridge.
Average humidity of 77% over the past week, with frequent 80%+ readings overnight, substantially slows drying and cloud contact at 430m can deposit surface moisture.
The NW-facing aspect receives virtually no direct solar heating, removing one of the most effective drying mechanisms and leaving wind as the sole significant drying agent.
Temperatures reaching 20–27°C this week provide good evaporative potential and eliminate any freeze-thaw concern.
Hourly data shows 100% cloud for most of today, consistent with the crag being in cloud at summit level, which can deposit mist moisture on the rock surface.
Recommendations
3
- Visit during the afternoon window (12:00–17:00) when humidity drops to 43–50% and wind picks up to 11–15 km/h, giving the best chance of dry conditions on exposed faces.
- Focus on wind-exposed and any south-facing problems first, as these will have dried most effectively; avoid sheltered alcoves and lower sections where moisture lingers.
- Perform the ground-test on arrival: if the soil at the crag base is damp rather than sandy-dry, the rock is likely still holding internal moisture and you should not climb.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
62%
5 days ago
The last significant rain was 7.4mm on August 4th, followed by smaller amounts on the 5th, 6th, and 9th (1.8mm yesterday). With only one full dry day since the last rain and high humidity at this NW-facing, high-altitude crag, internal moisture is likely still present despite moderate winds. Conditions should be assessed on arrival, particularly in sheltered sections, but wind-exposed problems may be climbable.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- At 430m with NW aspect, Simonside frequently sits in cloud even on otherwise dry days — mist contact can re-wet surfaces that have partially dried, and today's high cloud cover (90%+ from mid-afternoon) may bring hill fog.
- The exposed summit ridge position means SW winds (current direction) hit the crag directly, which is the single biggest factor aiding drying here and partially compensates for the unfavourable aspect.
- The 30+ minute walk-in means conditions cannot be quickly reassessed — commit to the visit understanding that some problems (especially lower, sheltered ones) may still be damp.
- Recent weeks have seen repeated small rain events (22mm over 28 days) preventing the rock from ever fully drying out internally, so cumulative moisture loading is a concern even though individual events were modest.
Warnings
2
- Repeated wetting events over the past two weeks mean cumulative internal moisture may be higher than the modest individual rainfall totals suggest — surface dryness does not guarantee structural soundness.
- High cloud cover this afternoon may bring hill fog at 430m, re-wetting apparently dry rock surfaces without warning.
Reasoning
1.8mm fell yesterday (Aug 9) and 0.3mm on Aug 6, with 7.4mm on Aug 4 — the rock has had only one full dry day since the last rain, and cumulative moisture from repeated small events over recent weeks means internal saturation is likely still elevated.
Today's SW wind at ~14 km/h combined with temperatures reaching 17–18°C and humidity dropping to 53–56% mid-afternoon provides reasonable drying conditions, but the NW aspect receives virtually no direct sun, and only one dry day is well short of the 48–72 hour guideline for moderate rain on porous sandstone.
With repeated wetting events and insufficient drying intervals over the past two weeks, there is moderate risk of weakened holds especially on lower sections and in seepage zones — the 7.4mm event on Aug 4 alone warrants 48–72 hours of good drying.
Mid-summer temperatures (15–18°C) and longer daylight hours are favourable for drying, and this is within Simonside's recommended May–September climbing window, though the recent unsettled spell has undermined what should be the best season.
Contributing Factors
7
1.8mm fell on August 9th with only one dry day elapsed, insufficient for confident drying of porous Fell Sandstone.
7.4mm on August 4th was the heaviest recent event, and repeated smaller showers since have prevented full drying from that saturation.
Sustained SW winds of 14–25 km/h over recent days directly hit this exposed summit crag, significantly accelerating surface evaporation.
The NW-facing aspect receives almost no direct sunshine, removing one of the key drying mechanisms and prolonging internal moisture retention.
At 430m, the crag is frequently in cloud — today's forecast shows 90–100% cloud cover through the afternoon, risking mist contact that re-wets surfaces.
Mid-summer temperatures of 15–18°C are the warmest this crag experiences and support reasonable evaporation rates.
Humidity drops to 53–56% mid-afternoon today, creating a useful drying window if the crag stays below cloud base.
Recommendations
3
- If visiting today, focus on the most wind-exposed and upper problems which dry fastest — avoid lower, sheltered sections and any areas showing dark patches or seepage.
- Apply the touch test rigorously: if the rock feels cool and clammy to the palm, or the ground at the crag base is damp, do not climb.
- Tomorrow (Aug 11) and especially Aug 12–14 look significantly better with a warm, dry spell forecast — waiting 1–2 days would substantially increase confidence in dry conditions.
Do Not Climb
60%
5 days ago
Today (Aug 9) has seen 1.7mm of rain, and the past week has brought 11.4mm of precipitation across several events, with high average humidity (82%). While strong SW winds and moderate summer temperatures will aid drying, the NW aspect at 430m with frequent cloud contact means the rock is very likely still damp internally — we recommend waiting for at least two full dry days.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- At 430m on a NW-facing ridge, Simonside is frequently in cloud or mist even on otherwise dry days, meaning surface moisture can accumulate without measurable rainfall.
- The exposed summit position means SW/W winds hit the crag directly, which is one of the few factors that accelerates drying at this otherwise slow-drying venue.
- The long walk-in (30+ minutes) means conditions can change significantly between the car park and the crag — valley-bottom weather is not representative of summit conditions.
- Recent precipitation has been spread across multiple small events (7.4mm on Aug 4, 1.6mm on Aug 5, 0.3mm on Aug 6, 1.7mm today), preventing the rock from ever fully drying out between episodes.
Warnings
2
- Do not climb on damp Fell Sandstone — the iron-oxide holds that define routes here are extremely fragile when wet and damage is permanent.
- At 430m, cloud can roll in rapidly even on forecast-dry days, re-wetting apparently dry rock surfaces within minutes.
Reasoning
With 1.7mm of rain today and 11.4mm over the past week spread across multiple events, the rock has not had a sustained dry window and is very likely retaining internal moisture despite any surface drying between showers.
Strong SW winds (20–32 km/h recently) are helpful, but the NW aspect receives virtually no direct sun, and average humidity of 82% over the past week severely limits evaporative drying between rain events.
Fell sandstone at only ~1% saturation already loses significant strength, and the repeated wetting cycles without full drying create cumulative risk of hold breakage and grain loosening on the iron-oxide holds climbers depend on.
Mid-summer is the best season for Simonside, but the recent pattern of unsettled weather with high humidity has prevented the sustained dry spells this venue needs to come into good condition.
Contributing Factors
6
1.7mm today plus 7.4mm on Aug 4 and smaller amounts on Aug 3, 5, and 6 mean the rock has been repeatedly wetted without adequate drying intervals.
Average humidity of 82% over the past week severely reduces the rate of evaporation from the rock surface and interior.
The NW-facing aspect receives minimal direct sunlight, and at 430m the crag is frequently in cloud, both of which dramatically slow drying.
Sustained SW winds of 20–32 km/h across the exposed summit ridge are the primary drying mechanism for this crag and partially offset the poor aspect.
Temperatures around 15–22°C are adequate for evaporation, though below what would drive rapid drying of porous sandstone.
The longest fully dry spell in the past week was only two days (Aug 7–8) before today's rain, insufficient for a high-altitude NW-facing sandstone crag to dry internally.
Recommendations
3
- Wait for at least two consecutive dry days with wind before visiting — the earliest realistic window is Aug 11 if Aug 10 stays dry, but check conditions carefully on arrival.
- On arrival, check the ground at the base of the crag: if soil or rock at the base is visibly damp, the rock interior is almost certainly still wet.
- Prioritise any wind-exposed or slightly south-facing problems first, as these will dry fastest; avoid lower sections and sheltered corners which retain moisture longest.
Do Not Climb
45%
6 days ago
Recent rain on Aug 4 (7.4mm), Aug 5 (1.6mm), Aug 6 (0.3mm), and today Aug 8 (0.3mm) means the rock has not had a sustained dry period. Although strong SW winds are helping, the NW aspect, high altitude, and persistently elevated humidity (81% average over the last week) mean internal moisture is very likely still present.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- Simonside's 430m altitude means it is frequently in cloud, and mist-deposited surface moisture can keep the rock damp even between rain events — the 0.1–0.3mm trace readings on several recent days likely reflect this.
- The NW aspect receives virtually no direct sun, so drying relies almost entirely on wind; the recent SW winds are helpful as they hit the face obliquely, but humidity has remained stubbornly above 75% most days.
- The 7.4mm on Aug 4 is the most significant recent event and is only 4 days ago — at this altitude and aspect, 48–72+ hours of genuinely dry, breezy weather is needed, and intermittent trace precipitation has repeatedly reset the drying clock.
- The long 30+ minute walk-in means committing significant time before you can assess conditions on the rock — consider checking the base of the crag for dampness before gearing up.
Warnings
2
- The rock surface may appear dry while internal moisture remains — do not rely on visual assessment alone; Fell Sandstone loses significant strength at just 1% saturation.
- Repeated light precipitation and mist at 430m can keep the rock dangerously weakened even when it looks climbable.
Reasoning
The 7.4mm event on Aug 4 followed by 1.6mm on Aug 5, 0.3mm on Aug 6, and 0.3mm today means the rock has had no clean 48-hour dry window, and internal moisture is almost certainly still present given the high porosity of Fell Sandstone.
Strong SW winds (20–32 km/h) over recent days are the main drying driver given the NW aspect receives negligible sun, but average humidity of 81% significantly limits evaporative potential, and intermittent trace precipitation has disrupted any sustained drying.
With only 4 days since the 7.4mm rainfall and repeated moisture inputs since, the rock is likely above the critical ~1% saturation threshold where significant strength loss begins, posing a real risk of hold breakage on the small iron-oxide features climbers depend on.
Summer conditions are as good as they get at Simonside, with adequate temperatures (~15–21°C) to support drying, but this has been a damp spell and the venue's high-altitude, NW-facing character makes it slow to recover even in July–August.
Contributing Factors
6
7.4mm fell on Aug 4 with further precipitation on Aug 5 (1.6mm), Aug 6 (0.3mm), and today (0.3mm), preventing any sustained drying window.
Winds of 20–32 km/h from the SW over recent days provide the primary drying mechanism for this NW-facing crag.
Average humidity of 81% over the last 7 days substantially reduces evaporative drying efficiency even with good wind.
The NW-facing aspect receives minimal direct sunlight, eliminating solar heating as a drying factor and leaving the crag reliant on wind alone.
At 430m the crag is frequently in cloud, and mist can deposit surface moisture that resets drying even without recorded rainfall.
Temperatures of 15–21°C are warm enough to support reasonable evaporation rates when combined with wind.
Recommendations
3
- Wait for a clear 48-hour dry window with sustained wind before visiting — the forecast suggests Aug 11–12 could offer this if no further rain materialises.
- If you do visit, check the ground at the base of the crag for dampness before climbing; if it is not sandy-dry, the rock is almost certainly still wet internally.
- Focus on the most wind-exposed and overhanging features if conditions look borderline, and avoid any slabs or lower sections which will retain moisture longest.
Do Not Climb
45%
7 days ago
Simonside received 7.4mm of rain on Aug 4th followed by 1.6mm on Aug 5th and trace precipitation on Aug 6th, with only one fully dry day (today) since. Despite strong SW winds aiding drying, the NW aspect, high altitude, and persistently elevated humidity (~80%+) mean internal moisture is very likely still present — the responsible choice is to wait.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- At 430m with NW aspect, Simonside is frequently in cloud or mist, which deposits surface moisture even on rain-free days and significantly slows drying between showers.
- The exposed summit ridge position means strong winds (20-30 km/h SW recently) are the primary drying mechanism here, partially compensating for the lack of direct sun on the NW-facing rock.
- The recent rainfall pattern shows repeated small wetting events (Aug 1, 3, 4, 5, 6) that have kept the rock in a near-continuously moist state, preventing any sustained drying window from developing.
- The most recent condition report (April 2026) noted that only wind-exposed and south-facing problems were dry even in strong breeze — NW-facing rock dries last and slowest at this venue.
Warnings
2
- The rock surface may appear dry in the wind while remaining saturated internally — do not be deceived by surface appearance at this high-altitude venue.
- Repeated wetting and climbing on damp Fell Sandstone causes permanent, irreversible damage to the small iron-oxide holds that define routes here.
Reasoning
With 7.4mm on Aug 4th, 1.6mm on Aug 5th, and 0.3mm on Aug 6th, plus only one dry day since, the porous Fell Sandstone is almost certainly still holding significant internal moisture despite surface drying from wind.
Strong SW winds (24-31 km/h) over the last two days help surface evaporation considerably, but the NW aspect receives no direct sun and humidity has averaged ~82% over the past week, severely limiting the drying rate through the rock's full depth.
With recent repeated wetting and inadequate drying time, the sandstone is likely at or above the critical moisture threshold where compressive strength is significantly reduced, posing a real risk of hold breakage on the small iron-oxide features climbers depend on.
Mid-summer provides the best available conditions for Simonside, but the recent unsettled spell with above-average humidity has negated much of the seasonal advantage.
Contributing Factors
7
7.4mm fell on August 4th — a moderate rainfall event that would saturate the upper layers of porous Fell Sandstone rapidly.
Small but cumulative precipitation on Aug 1, 3, 5, and 6 has prevented the rock from establishing any sustained drying period.
Just one fully dry day (today) since the last precipitation is far short of the 48–72+ hours needed after moderate rain on porous sandstone.
Sustained SW winds of 24–31 km/h over the last two days significantly aid surface evaporation on this exposed summit ridge.
Average humidity of 82% over the past week severely limits evaporative drying, and at 430m cloud contact is likely adding surface moisture.
The NW-facing rock receives minimal direct solar radiation, removing one of the most effective drying mechanisms.
Temperatures around 15–20°C provide reasonable evaporation potential, better than spring or autumn conditions.
Recommendations
3
- Wait for at least 48 hours of fully dry weather with humidity below 75% before visiting — currently insufficient drying time since the Aug 4–6 wet spell.
- If you do walk up, test the ground at the crag base: if soil or moss is damp, the rock is certainly still holding internal moisture and should not be climbed.
- Monitor conditions for the Aug 11–12 dry window — if the forecast holds, two consecutive dry days with moderate wind could bring conditions into climbable range.
Marginal — Assess Conditions
55%
9 days ago
Recent rain (7.4mm on Aug 4, 1.6mm on Aug 5, trace today) combined with high humidity and 100% cloud cover at altitude means the rock is likely still damp internally despite strong winds. Conditions may be improving through this afternoon as humidity drops, but the NW aspect and frequent cloud immersion at 430m make full drying uncertain — a careful on-site assessment is essential.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- At 430m with NW aspect, Simonside is frequently immersed in cloud even on 'dry' days, depositing surface moisture that resets drying clocks without registering as measurable rainfall.
- The exposed summit ridge position means strong SW/W winds (20–31 km/h recently) are a significant drying ally and the primary mechanism by which this crag dries, partially compensating for the poor aspect.
- The 100% cloud cover through this morning suggests the crag may have been in cloud overnight, adding surface moisture on top of recent rain — the afternoon clearing window (humidity dropping to 52%) offers the best chance of dry rock.
- The long 30+ minute walk-in means conditions can change during the approach; carry alternative plans and check the rock carefully on arrival before committing.
Warnings
2
- Do not climb if the rock feels cool and clammy to the touch or if the ground at the crag base is damp — surface-dry Fell Sandstone can still be dangerously weakened internally.
- Cloud immersion at 430m can deposit moisture rapidly and without warning; retreat if visibility drops or the rock becomes damp during a session.
Reasoning
7.4mm fell on Aug 4 and 1.6mm on Aug 5 with only a trace today, giving less than 48 hours of effective drying from the most significant rainfall, while average humidity has remained around 80% — internal moisture is likely still elevated.
Strong winds (20–31 km/h from SW/W) have been the primary drying force since Aug 5, but the NW aspect receives virtually no direct sun and persistent cloud cover at altitude deposits additional surface moisture, significantly slowing what would otherwise be adequate wind-driven drying.
With only ~36 hours since meaningful rain and humidity remaining high, internal pore saturation is likely above the level where significant strength reduction begins, posing a moderate risk of hold breakage on this porous Fell Sandstone.
Mid-summer provides the best available conditions for this high-altitude venue, with adequate temperatures (14–17°C) to support evaporation and no freeze-thaw risk, though the site remains marginal compared to lower, sunnier crags.
Contributing Factors
5
7.4mm on Aug 4 and 1.6mm on Aug 5 represent a significant wetting event for porous Fell Sandstone, with less than 48 hours of drying elapsed.
Winds of 20–31 km/h from SW/W since the rain are the primary drying mechanism for this exposed summit crag and have been working continuously.
Average humidity around 80% with 100% cloud cover through this morning drastically reduces evaporation rates and likely deposits additional surface moisture via mist immersion at 430m.
The NW-facing orientation receives virtually no direct solar heating, removing one of the key drying mechanisms and leaving the crag reliant almost entirely on wind.
Humidity is forecast to drop to 52–55% between 14:00–17:00 with some cloud breaks, offering a potential window where exposed surfaces could be dry enough to climb.
Recommendations
3
- If visiting today, target the afternoon window (14:00–17:00) when humidity drops below 55%, and thoroughly test rock dryness before climbing — check the base of the crag and any seepage lines.
- Prioritise wind-exposed problems and any south-facing aspects, which will have dried fastest; avoid sheltered corners, lower sections, and any routes with visible moisture or darkened patches.
- Tomorrow (Aug 7) and especially Aug 8 look more promising with continued dry weather and strong winds — waiting one more day significantly increases confidence in good conditions.
Do Not Climb
90%
11 days ago
Simonside received 7.1mm of rain today (much of it in the early hours and around midday), with 100% cloud cover and near-saturated humidity for most of the day. The NW-facing sandstone at 430m will be thoroughly wet and needs at least 48 hours of dry, breezy weather to recover — which the forecast does not provide, with further rain expected tomorrow.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- At 430m with NW aspect, Simonside is frequently in cloud even on nominally dry days, meaning mist-deposited surface moisture can keep the rock damp independently of rainfall.
- The crag has been through a notably unsettled period with 7.8mm in the last 7 days and multiple small wetting events (Aug 1, Aug 3, today) preventing any sustained drying window.
- Exposed summit ridge position means strong SW/W winds can accelerate drying significantly, but only when humidity drops below ~75% — recent humidity has averaged 80%+.
- The most recent condition report (April 2026) noted that only wind-exposed and south-facing problems dried acceptably, confirming that NW-facing sections are the slowest to dry at this venue.
Warnings
2
- Climbing on wet Fell Sandstone causes permanent, irreversible damage to holds — the iron oxide features that create Simonside's small holds are especially vulnerable when saturated.
- At 430m the crag may be in cloud even when the valley appears clear — surface moisture from mist can keep rock damp without measurable rainfall.
Reasoning
Today's 7.1mm of rain on already-damp sandstone (following light precipitation on Aug 1 and Aug 3) means the rock is almost certainly saturated or near-saturated internally, well above the critical thresholds for strength loss.
Despite the exposed position, the combination of 100% cloud cover, humidity consistently above 85% for most of today, and the NW aspect receiving no direct sun means negligible drying has occurred since this morning's rain — and further rain is forecast tomorrow.
With the rock likely at or above 60% pore saturation from repeated recent wetting, climbing today or tomorrow risks significant hold breakage on these iron-oxide-cemented Fell Sandstone routes.
Summer conditions at least provide adequate temperatures (15–22°C) for drying when a dry window eventually opens, but the current unsettled pattern is preventing this venue from drying out.
Contributing Factors
6
7.1mm fell today, mostly in the early hours and around midday, thoroughly wetting the rock surface and replenishing internal moisture.
Small but frequent precipitation on Jul 28 (3.2mm), Jul 29 (0.2mm), Aug 1 (0.1mm), Aug 3 (0.4mm), and today (7.1mm) has prevented any sustained drying window.
Humidity has averaged 80%+ over the past week with 100% cloud cover today, severely limiting evaporative drying potential.
The NW-facing aspect receives minimal direct sunlight even in summer, making this the slowest-drying orientation at the crag.
The exposed summit ridge benefits from sustained winds (17–25 km/h forecast), which is the primary drying mechanism at this venue.
2.8mm is forecast for Aug 5, resetting any drying progress and extending the wait for climbable conditions.
Recommendations
3
- Do not visit Simonside today or tomorrow — the rock is wet from today's rain and further precipitation is expected on Aug 5.
- The earliest realistic window is Aug 7 after two dry days with good wind, but check humidity and cloud levels before committing to the long walk-in.
- If visiting the area, consider whether any sheltered lower-altitude non-sandstone venues might offer better conditions in the interim.
Do Not Climb
65%
12 days ago
Simonside has received light but repeated precipitation over recent days (3.2mm on July 28, 0.2mm on July 29, 0.1mm on Aug 1, and 1.2mm today including drizzle through the morning), and today's hourly data shows 100% cloud cover with humidity peaking near 99% overnight — conditions consistent with the crag being in cloud. Heavy rain (12.4mm) is forecast tomorrow, making the next several days unsuitable. While there was a reasonable dry spell from July 30–31 with good wind, the repeated light wetting events since then, combined with the NW aspect, high altitude cloud immersion, and persistently high humidity, mean internal moisture levels are likely still elevated.
Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.
- At 430m with NW aspect, Simonside is frequently immersed in cloud — today's 100% cloud cover and humidity reaching 99% overnight suggests direct mist-wetting of the rock surface even outside recorded precipitation.
- The crag's exposed position means wind-assisted drying can be very effective when conditions allow, but easterly and light winds overnight and this morning have limited that benefit today.
- The most recent condition report (April 2026) noted that wind-exposed and south-facing problems dried first, suggesting NW-facing main faces are the last to dry and should be treated with extra caution.
- The long walk-in (30+ minutes) means committing to a visit only to find damp rock is a significant time investment — checking conditions before the approach is not possible.
Warnings
2
- Heavy rain (12.4mm) forecast tomorrow will fully saturate the rock — do not plan a visit for at least 48–72 hours after this event.
- At 430m, Simonside can be in cloud when surrounding lowlands are clear — valley conditions are not a reliable indicator of crag conditions.
Reasoning
Light but repeated precipitation events (July 28: 3.2mm, July 29: 0.2mm, Aug 1: 0.1mm, today: 1.2mm with drizzle through the morning) combined with overnight humidity at 93–99% and persistent cloud immersion mean the rock surface has been repeatedly re-wetted and is very likely damp internally.
While July 30–31 offered two dry days with reasonable SW wind (18–21 km/h), this drying was interrupted by trace rain on Aug 1 and more substantial drizzle today; the NW aspect receives minimal direct sun, and the cloud-immersed summit position severely limits evaporative drying even when precipitation is absent.
Fell Sandstone loses significant strength at very low saturation levels, and the repeated light wetting without sustained drying periods means the iron oxide holds are at elevated risk of grain loosening and breakage.
Mid-summer is the best season for Simonside, but the current unsettled spell with high humidity and cloud immersion negates much of the seasonal advantage; temperatures are adequate (~17–19°C) but insufficient to overcome the moisture loading.
Contributing Factors
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Precipitation on July 28 (3.2mm), July 29 (0.2mm), Aug 1 (0.1mm), and today (1.2mm with morning drizzle) has kept the rock surface repeatedly moistened without adequate drying gaps.
Today's hourly data shows 100% cloud cover all day with humidity reaching 99% overnight and remaining above 80% through midday, consistent with the crag being in cloud and receiving surface moisture from mist.
The NW-facing aspect receives very little direct sunlight, dramatically slowing evaporative drying compared to south-facing crags.
Wind speeds of 15–20 km/h from SW through the afternoon provide some drying effect, though this is largely offset by the high humidity and cloud immersion.
12.4mm of rain is forecast for August 4, which will thoroughly saturate any partially dried rock and reset the drying clock entirely.
Temperatures around 17–19°C are reasonable for drying but cannot compensate for high humidity and cloud cover at this altitude.
Recommendations
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- Do not climb at Simonside today — the combination of morning drizzle, cloud immersion, and high humidity means the rock is likely damp even where it appears dry on the surface.
- Avoid visiting tomorrow (Aug 4) and the following days, as 12.4mm of heavy rain will thoroughly saturate the crag and further light rain is forecast through Aug 6–7.
- Monitor conditions for a dry window after Aug 9 — at least 48 hours of dry, breezy weather with humidity below 75% will be needed before the rock can be considered safe to climb.
Climbing Outlook