The wind and blizzard are finally over. The first week of April surprised us with winter-like weather. Strong, constant winds and gusts throughout the week, along with fresh rain that brought blizzard conditions. Good weather and spring-like temperatures will return tomorrow, Saturday, and throughout the rest of the Easter holidays.
Summary of weather data at 2.000 m:
Forecast: (meteomuntanya.cat and @meteocattv)
Change in weather with a predominance of sunshine.
Snowpack:
We’ve received about 30 cm of new snow at the 2,000-meter level, and over 40 cm at higher elevations. The wind that has blown all week has left the mountain in windblown conditions. Bare ridges and sheltered areas have significant accumulations. This is a typical mid-winter situation, but it’s short-lived, as the arrival of the anticyclone will bring back spring-like conditions with significant daytime temperature increases and nighttime frosts.
It’s important to follow the avalanche warning system (BPA). The avalanche risk is currently at level 3 out of 5. The risk is predominantly slab avalanches, which will give way to wet snow avalanches, while slab avalanches will remain in the northern sectors. Don’t forget to bring your safety equipment, such as a shovel, avalanche transceiver (DVA), and probe.
All of this will bring back spring-like snow conditions, which, as you know, carry risks in the mornings due to falls on hard snow and ice. However, once exposed to daytime sunlight, the surface layer melts, allowing for comfortable skiing. Regardless of the activity we choose, whether it’s ski touring, snowshoeing, or mountaineering, we must carry the necessary equipment, such as an ice axe, crampons, and a helmet.
On the Camí Vell we find snow starting from Pla de Sallent. The current accumulation of snow at the top of the path makes it difficult to navigate in the mornings, where the path is buried in snow. The snow is icy, and even a small slip could send you plummeting into the abyss with serious consequences. It is NOT RECOMMENDED for people without winter equipment or experience.
At Fontalba, reaching the top is again difficult; it is necessary to leave the car 2 km before. The path leading to Núria is in mountaineering conditions; it is essential to carry safety equipment such as an ice axe, crampons, and a helmet. It is NOT RECOMMENDED for people without avalanche awareness and the appropriate equipment. This path is exposed to natural and preventative avalanches depending on snowfall and rising temperatures.
The Engineers’ Path is still covered in snow and is not recommended throughout the winter season due to areas where a slip could have fatal consequences.
