Police ‘very concerned’ about welfare of missing dog walker in Snowdonia

Police have said they are “very concerned” about the welfare of a missing dog walker in Snowdonia, northwest Wales.

The search continues for Ausra Plungiene, who was reported missing earlier this week, with mountain rescue teams and RAF Search and Rescue looking for her in the Carneddau mountains.

The 56-year-old from Prestatyn, North Wales, was last seen on Tuesday and is believed to have left for a walk with her dog Eyora at about 10.30am, but failed to return home.

A search across Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) was launched after the alarm was raised shortly before 10pm on Tuesday.

Her car was found in a remote car park in the Rowen area in the early hours of Wednesday, North Wales Police said.

In a fresh appeal for information, Superintendent Owain Llewelyn said: “We are very concerned for Ausra’s welfare.”

He said searches had continued in the Carneddau area despite extremely difficult weather conditions, including snow and gale force winds, and would resume at first light on Thursday.

It is believed Ms Plungiene may have been wearing a dark pink or purple padded jacket, black leggings and blue shoes.

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“With information from witnesses who spoke to her, and Ausra’s route, teams have been searching the high mountains in atrocious conditions throughout the day and will continue at first light,” said a statement on the Facebook page for Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue.

“The thoughts of all the teams are with Ausra’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”