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France Warns of Level-4 Avalanche Danger Across Most Massifs

Fresh snow on weak layers is driving instability that prompts resort control work.

Overview

  • Météo France reports a strong avalanche risk of 4 out of 5 across nearly all Alpine massifs this weekend, with both human-triggered and some spontaneous avalanches expected.
  • Specific Pyrenean sectors above roughly 1,800 meters—Haute-Bigorre, Aspe-Ossau, Couserans, Haute-Ariège and Capcir—along with Corsican massifs, are also at level 4 outside secured areas.
  • Forecasters cite heavy snowfall and wind slabs forming on fragile layers, with accumulations locally exceeding one meter around Mont Blanc, Tarentaise and Beaufortain.
  • Resorts have activated avalanche-control operations (PIDA), and mountain authorities urge no off-piste without a professional and mandatory safety gear including transceiver, shovel and probe.
  • In the northeast, the prefecture has restricted traffic due to snow and ice, including a ban on trucks over 3.5 tonnes in several departments and speed and overtaking limits in Haute-Marne through Monday morning.