French Authorities Close RN22 Road to Andorra Overnight Due to Heavy Snow

French authorities have closed the RN22 access road to Andorra from the Pas de la Casa border since 7pm Wednesday due to heavy snow forecasts of up to half a metre in high mountain areas. Daniel Boneta, head of the Mobility area, said the decision followed a morning meeting with Andorran officials and is expected to last only overnight, with reopening planned for Thursday morning ahead of ski resort and business openings, assuming improving conditions.

Boneta noted the timing seeks to reduce impact on Pas de la Casa commerce. He added that the Port d'Envalira remained shut overnight amid tough high-altitude weather, while central parishes saw calmer conditions. "It's their territory and they decide when to open or close; we collaborate and deploy all necessary resources," Boneta said. Weather outlooks point to sunny spells for the rest of Easter week, likely boosting visitor numbers.

The Mobility department activated its Easter traffic plan Wednesday, projecting 66,000 inbound vehicles over five days from Thursday to Monday—including 47,700 via the Spanish border and 18,300 from France. Traffic rose noticeably Wednesday, with peaks forecast for Thursday afternoon through Friday exceeding 12,000 vehicles daily. Ski resorts are running at full capacity with deeper-than-usual snow bases, and hotel bookings show optimism, per Boneta. Volumes align with winter-season estimates and have stabilised post-Covid highs, though high-parish stations—most closing Monday—will draw crowds.

Residents should avoid peak inbound times via Spain (9:30-14:30 and 16:00-22:00) and France (8:00-13:00); outbound via Spain (8:00-22:00) and France (15:00-19:00). Double lanes will operate at borders, Avinguda Francesc Cairat, and afternoons from Comella to Margineda, with possible measures in Canillo, La Massana, or the central valley. Coordination involves all seven communes and police from the three countries.

This closure echoes prior Pas disruptions, like the extended RN-20 landslide until March and farmer protests. Hotel occupancy hit 65% early in the holidays, up 10 points year-on-year, with a weekend surge expected despite initial weather, according to Unió Hotelera director Albert Mora.

Turbo roundabout trials at Prada Casadet and Km 0, live since early March, have cut passage times by 10-15%, drawing praise. Studies advance for Margineda, then Gall, Encamp Sud, and possibly Bartra, with Easter traffic offering a test for visitors.

Carrer de la Unió works remain set to start April 7, creating three lanes from Km 0 to Dama de Gel roundabouts for 20% better flow, including a 30 km/h limit, restricted left turns, and shifted terraces, bus stops, and charging points. Secretary David Forné praised trader support.