Andorra Records 17 Snow Episodes This Winter with Metre-Deep Accumulations

Andorra has seen 17 snow episodes since November 1, with accumulations reaching nearly a metre in a single event, according to data from Nivorisk, the Andorran firm specialising in snowpack management and avalanche risk assessment for institutions including the COEX and ski resorts.

The company's Sunday report highlights particularly heavy snowfall in January, the most active month with five episodes. The peak accumulation occurred on January 9-10, when westerly and north-westerly winds brought 70-90 cm of snow down to 1,400m in valley bottoms. Another major event from January 23-26 added 60-80 cm, starting at valley level and rising to 2,300m. The longest stretch ran from January 16-20. November, December and February each recorded four episodes, making this winter's snowfalls frequent and abundant overall.

Untouched high-altitude areas could now hold snow depths of 4-5 metres. While Sunday's mild weather made for ideal mountain conditions, Nivorisk experts warn that rising temperatures increase avalanche risks, urging caution.

In a related incident, firefighters mobilised midday Sunday to Casamanya peak in Ordino parish following an avalanche alert. The mountain rescue team followed protocol, confirming no active threat—it was an old snow detachment, ruling out any incident.