Finally, after many weather fronts have passed, the anticyclone is here! It looks like it will stay for a week, and with the days getting longer, everything feels different. We’re in for a memorable weekend and a taste of the spring that’s just around the corner. Let’s enjoy it!
Summary of weather data at 2.000 m:
Forecast: (meteomuntanya.cat and @meteocattv)
Snowpack:
We continue to have above-average snowfall for this time of year. Snow above 1,700 meters on the north side and around 1,900 meters on the south side. Snow depth of 1 meter at 2,000 meters and over 1.5 meters at higher elevations. Snow on all slopes and orientations.
The week was marked by constant NE winds, however, there was not much wind transport due to low precipitation and very wet snow. The avalanche risk has dropped to 1/2 on a scale of 5, with a downward trend. Please consult the BPA. However, be aware that as the week progresses and temperatures rise in sunny, sloping areas, there is a risk of wet snow avalanches during the middle of the day.
The surface of the snowpack is hardened at medium elevations and wind-blown at higher elevations. This week, the isozero rises above 3,000 m, and we will find that the snow will begin its daily transformation of nighttime refreezing. In other words, hard snow in the morning and on shady slopes, which transforms around midday, making skiing easier. This means that the greatest risk is now falls on hard snow and ice. Whatever activity we are going to do, whether it be sky mountaineering, snowshoeing, or mountaineering, we must carry progression equipment such as ice axes, crampons, and helmets.
On the Camí vell, we find snow starting at 1,800 m, shortly before Pla de Sallent. The current accumulation of snow at the top of the path means that, early in the morning, it is suitable for mountaineering, where the path is covered in snow, the snow is frozen, and a small slip could send us plummeting into the void with fatal consequences. NOT RECOMMENDED for people without winter equipment or experience.
In Fontalba, you can almost reach the pass by car. The path leading to Núria is suitable for mountaineering, so it is essential to carry safety equipment such as an ice axe, crampons, and a helmet. NOT RECOMMENDED for people who are not familiar with avalanches and do not have the appropriate equipment. This path is exposed to natural and preventive avalanches depending on snowfall and rising temperatures.
The Enginyers trail is covered in snow and is not recommended throughout the winter season for areas where a slip could have fatal consequences.
