Climbed up Mount Nephin yesterday, the second highest peak in Connacht at 806m just 8m shy of Mweelrea, the highest.
Nephin's reputation for being a "wild mountain" remains intact. The forecast was for a dry calm and warm day. Well it started out that way but went downhill as we progressed uphill. Visibility disappeared above the 700m line and temperatures dropped down hugely. As we began our descent an unforeseen storm hit us full on, and with winds well in excess of 100kph we struggled to stay upright. We had to go low and one stage it looked like we might have to sit it out. Finding some shelter on the easterly side of the ridge we made some progress. We were still buffeted around as we descended into the Corrie. The remainder of the hike out was uneventful apart from the scene awaiting us at the Nephin car park where Mountain Rescue were on an operation to recover an injured person close to the summit. With an ambulance on standby and Garda car on duty and the arrival of the Irish Coast Guard helicopter we felt hugely thankful for a safe passage throughout our hike.
A huge thanks to all the brave hearts who participated with courage and strength under extremely difficult circumstances. We are proud of you all.
