The continuous passage of various fronts leaves us with near-record snow accumulation figures. We have snow everywhere, but extreme caution is required because the state of the snow is highly variable and accumulations are quite significant. Our mountains are not the most rugged part of the Pyrenees; however, current circumstances and the forecast for more snow and wind make it inadvisable to venture into these valleys until a period of stable weather settles the snowpack somewhat
Summary of weather data at 2,000 metres:
Forecast: (meteomuntanya.cat i @meteocattv)
Saturday sees a sharp drop in temperature, with a return of snow and wind.
Snowpack:
The snowpack is continuous and thicker than usual for this time of year; it starts at 1,400 m on north-facing slopes and at 1,600 m on south-facing slopes. This week there has been heavy snowfall, approximately 70 cm of new snow, with daily deposits of fresh snow. Winds from different directions (S, W, and N) have formed new slabs on all aspects. Naturally triggered avalanches of size 2–3 have occurred. Wind has eroded ridgelines and summits, creating new accumulations. More snow and northerly winds are forecast, so the danger level will increase. The snow surface is compact and, in certain areas, wind-affected.
The avalanche risk is 4 out of 5. Please consult the avalanche danger bulletin. In other areas of the Pyrenees, in situations like the current one, it is possible to choose forest-protected valleys or gently sloping terrain to enjoy the snow. In the case of Núria, we do not have such slopes outside the controlled area of the ski resort. Under these conditions, activity is not recommended, even for people experienced in avalanche risk management.
For the rest of mountain enthusiasts, it costs nothing to wait for a period of settled weather that stabilizes the snowpack and allows us to enjoy it more safely.
On the Camí Vell, snow is found from 1,600 m onwards, shortly before the Cremal bridge. The current snow accumulation on the upper part of the path places it in alpine (mountaineering) conditions. Additionally, we are carrying out—and will need to continue—preventive avalanche triggering operations, which means that access via camí de Fontalba and Camí Vell are CLOSED.
At Fontalba, access by car is not possible due to snow accumulation. This route is exposed to avalanche runouts and is NOT RECOMMENDED.
The Enginyers road is completely covered by snow and is not advised throughout the entire winter season, as it includes sections where a slip could have fatal consequences.
