1. France Snow Overview

France

Updated 17/02

Strong snowfall continues into this week after last week’s incredible numbers – with the avalanche risk remaining very high as a result, with Level 4 (High) and Level 5 (Very High) dominating across the French Alps. Around 25cm of snowfall is coming down on Tuesday with flurries continuing into Wednesday, with cloud and obscured conditions in play. This will reach most elevations as the freezing line remains close to 1,000m throughout, taking a long walk off a short pier overnight as it hits sea level.

Another large snowfall is due on Thursday, continuing to bring excellent snow but maintaining this avalanche cycle – this new snow is sitting on a persistent weak layer dating from December that has been causing issues all winter, and remains a severe risk now.

Temperatures remain cold, with the freezing line holding fast at around 1,500m. This means that around 70cm of snowfall will hit upper slopes, with decent totals of 20cm reaching lower slopes, too.

Cloud clears – as does the snow – over Friday and into Saturday, meaning those of you still skiing may well experience amazing conditions now that this new loading of snow has had a chance to sinter and bind to the layers below; although with a persistent weak layer in play this will remain dangerous for some time.

Conditions take a marked turn towards spring, with sun during the day and cold temperatures overnight, creating a distinct freeze-thaw cycle.