Following today's fatal avalanches in the Isere and Savoie, Météo-France has issued a special avalanche communiqué warning of a high avalanche risk across most of the Northern Alps and parts of the Southern Alps, urging extreme caution for anyone venturing into the mountains.
High Risk Across Most Alpine Massifs
According to Météo-France, the snowpack is currently **very unstable** across the Northern Alps and the Hautes-Alpes department. Avalanche danger is rated Level 4 out of 5 (High) on the European avalanche risk scale across nearly all of these mountain ranges.
The elevated risk follows more than a week of heavy snowfall combined with strong winds, which have significantly destabilized the snowpack and triggered intense avalanche activity. Authorities report numerous very large avalanches in recent days, some reaching valley floors.
Forecasters warn that avalanches can be easily triggered by skiers, snowboarders, and hikers, potentially releasing very large volumes of snow.
Warning for Off-Piste and Backcountry Activities
Météo-France is urging “the greatest caution” outside marked and open ski runs. The warning applies to all mountain activities, including skiing and hiking.
With unstable wind-loaded snow and buried weak layers, even a single person can trigger a major slide under current conditions.
Spontaneous Avalanches Possible With Warming
The weather service also highlighted the risk of spontaneous avalanches as temperatures rise and sunshine returns on Wednesday. The expected thaw and solar radiation could further weaken the snowpack, particularly along long avalanche corridors.
Authorities are advising caution even in valleys located below steep avalanche paths.
Moderate but Significant Risk in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
In the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department, the avalanche risk is rated Level 3 out of 5 (Considerable). While snowfall totals there have been more moderate, instability remains present and could still pose a significant danger.
Further Information
Météo-France encourages mountain users to consult the latest avalanche bulletins on its official website and mobile application, and to seek advice from local mountain professionals before heading into alpine terrain.
With widespread instability and further weather changes expected, officials stress that vigilance remains essential across the French Alps. 28 people have already lost their lives this winter in avalanches in France.