Andorra Hit by Over 50cm Snow from Storm Goretti

Andorra's meteorological service has recorded over 50cm of snow in northern high-altitude areas from the tail end of storm Goretti, with 57cm at Fonts d'Arinsal, 51cm at Sorteny, 40cm at Bony de les Neres, and 39cm at Grau Roig in the past 24 hours. Lower elevations saw 13-20cm, including around Andorra la Vella and Encamp, where accumulations exceeded 25cm in places.

The orange alert for heavy snow and winds remains active above 2,100m in northern parishes, while a yellow alert covers the rest of the country. Northwest gusts hit 138km/h at Tossa d'Espiolets, generating blizzards, low visibility, and blowing snow. Temperatures Saturday reached maxima of -3°C to -5°C in high areas, with minima at 1°C in Andorra la Vella, -2°C at 1,500m, and -10°C at Pas de la Casa. Snowfall is easing in southern areas but persists in the north into early Sunday, with strong winds continuing.

Avalanche danger stands at level 4 (maximum) in the north and level 3 elsewhere, driven by fresh snow and wind-formed slabs on northeast-to-southwest slopes that could release naturally and reach valley floors or exposed roads. Civil Protection has maintained its pre-alert since Friday, with COEX monitoring for preventive blasting.

Road restrictions persist Saturday morning, with mandatory winter tyres or chains and a 60km/h limit from Escaldes toward northern valleys and on CG-2 from Encamp. French border routes via RN22 and RN320 at Puymorens remain closed. Earlier disruptions included queues at the Encamp variant, blockages from unequipped vehicles, and a material-damage accident near Tarter Friday afternoon. Phase yellow expanded nationwide by evening.

Ski operations face limitations: Funicamp closed for safety due to wind and snow, Grandvalira restricted to lower runs, and Arcalís delayed opening until late morning. Authorities advise avoiding off-piste activities, sticking to marked ski routes with safety equipment (DVA, shovel, probe), using public transport, checking meteo.ad and mobility apps, and preparing vehicles in advance. All emergency services continue monitoring.