5/5 Extreme avalanche danger in Courchevel, France. | Image: SnowBrains

Météo-France has issued a stark warning for mountain-goers this week, placing the Northern Alps and Pyrenees on orange avalanche alert and highlighting a strong avalanche risk (red) for many areas of the Northern Alps, Southern Alps, and Pyrenees. The warning comes just days after three skiers perished in an avalanche in Val d’Isère in the Savoie department.

Winter enthusiasts are being urged to exercise maximum caution this week as the Alps face high avalanche risk. Météo-France has issued an orange alert for the Northern Alps, while the Pyrenees are also seeing heightened danger. The department of Savoie is specifically under orange avalanche alert from Monday, February 16, at 4 a.m.

Avalanche danger in many French ski resorts stays at level 4 out of 5. | Image: SnowBrains

The storm system is expected to bring 50 to 70 centimeters (20-28 inches) of fresh snow above 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), with local totals up to 90 centimeters (35 inches), accompanied by winds of 80 to 100 km/h (50-60 mph) in the mountains. Valleys may also see several centimeters of heavy snow. These new falls will rest on an already unstable snowpack, creating a high avalanche risk (4/5) through Monday and Tuesday. Large-scale avalanches could occur even at medium elevations, with the potential to reach roads and infrastructure.

Avalanche risk remains very high in the French Alps. | Image: Meteo France

The department of Savoie and avalanche advisory ANEA warn that the mountains are particularly dangerous right now. Even a single skier or snowboarder can trigger a slide, and off-piste terrain is extremely unsafe unless properly equipped with a beacon, shovel, and probe, trained in avalanche rescue, and prepared with a planned exit route. Areas above 30° slopes should be strictly avoided, as well as zones dominated by steep slopes. “Powder makes you dream, but don’t let it decide for you,” cautioned ANENA. “The euphoria of a moment is not worth an accident. The best decision is the one that allows you to come back.”

The prefecture of Savoie reminds residents and visitors that winter equipment is mandatory on all roads until March 31. Before travelling or heading into the mountains, check local weather, avalanche, and traffic conditions.

For detailed updates and safety advice, visit Savoie Prefecture or the Météo-France mountain page.