Andorra Ski Resorts Close High-Altitude Areas Due to Winds and Avalanche Risk

**Andorra's ski resorts close high-altitude areas amid strong winds and level 4 avalanche risk**

Ordino Arcalís ski station shut down completely on Saturday, while high-altitude sectors at other Andorran resorts remained closed due to adverse weather, including intense wind gusts and a level 4 out of 5 avalanche risk across all slopes.

Grandvalira Resorts, which runs Ordino Arcalís, halted all operations as atmospheric, meteorological and snow conditions made safe activity impossible. Forecasts had warned of deteriorating gusts, particularly toward the end of the day as pistes closed. A strong avalanche alert was triggered by recent snowfall combined with heavy winds, prompting authorities to advise skiers to stick strictly to marked pistes and avoid off-piste areas entirely.

Additional closures affected several sectors and inter-station connections, mainly due to wind. The Peretol sector was inaccessible, and links between Arinsal and Pal (both directions), Encamp and Soldeu, The Tarter and Encamp, and The Tarter and Canillo were out of service. Road alternatives were available in some cases for travel between sectors. Conditions could shift as weather evolves, but operators stressed constant vigilance for skiers.

Visitors impacted by the closures can claim vouchers to cover services like lift passes and ski or snowboard rentals. These are redeemable on another day this season or, in certain cases, next season, applying only to station services and equipment hire.

The restrictions, focused on safety during this weather episode, will persist until conditions improve, with ongoing monitoring for any changes.