Storm Goretti Dumps Record 1.26m Snow on Andorra, Sparking Avalanche Alerts

Storm Goretti has left a heavy blanket of fresh snow across Andorra, with accumulations reaching a record 1.26 metres at the Sorteny station over 48 hours from Friday morning to Sunday morning. The Meteorological Service reported 51 cm on Friday and 76 cm on Saturday at the site, the highest among monitoring stations. Significant falls also hit other areas, including 53 cm at Arinsal springs, 45 cm at Bony de les Neres, and 40 cm at Envalira antennas. Snow began in the north and high elevations Friday afternoon, spreading nationwide overnight into Saturday before tapering off by evening.

The episode disrupted road traffic throughout Saturday, causing widespread mobility issues. Fresh snow, reshaped by wind into slabs, now poses heightened avalanche risks, particularly in the north where the danger level stands at 4. Across the south and centre, it remains at 3. Civil Protection and the Meteorological Service warn that rising temperatures—driven by incoming Atlantic high pressure—could further destabilise the snowpack. Sunday brings stable weather, sunny skies, and thermal inversions, with warmer conditions at higher altitudes than in valleys and progressive daily increases.

Lower and mid-level elevations have already seen snow depths drop sharply, nearing zero in many spots due to the thaw. In contrast, northern high-mountain zones retain substantial layers vulnerable to accidental or isolated natural triggers. Authorities stress caution for mountain activities: choose low-angle itineraries, stick to controlled areas, check snow conditions, and heed specialist advice. Even a single winter sports participant could trigger large avalanches, especially on northeast to southwest aspects.