Firefighters warn of "considerable" avalanche risk in the Catalan Pyrenees

Heavy snowfall and strong winds have raised the danger level to three out of five, particularly in the Vall d'Aran and northern Pallars regions.

Imatge genèrica d'un paisatge nevat d'alta muntanya amb acumulació de neu i risc d'allaus.

Imatge genèrica d'un paisatge nevat d'alta muntanya amb acumulació de neu i risc d'allaus.

The Bombers de la Generalitat have warned of the considerable risk of avalanches in the Pyrenees, with snow depths up to 50 centimeters, urging hikers to take extreme precautions this weekend.

The intense snowfall recorded this weekend has caused a significant increase in the danger of landslides in the Pyrenees, according to the Bombers de la Generalitat (Catalan Firefighters). This situation is considered "quite complicated" due to the large amount of accumulated snow and strong winds.

"The marked avalanche danger is three out of five, and people are giving it excessive confidence."

Eduard Sánchez · Fire Department Sergeant and GRAE Head
The Fire Department sergeant and head of the Special Actions Group (GRAE), Eduard Sánchez, pointed out that the most critical areas are the Vall d'Aran and northern Pallars. Sánchez detailed that recent snowfalls have left depths of up to 50 centimeters at high altitudes, which, combined with the wind, facilitates spontaneous landslides.
Emergency services are particularly concerned about this Sunday, as improved weather could lead to a greater influx of people into the mountains with an excess of "confidence." The Firefighters remind the public of the importance of planning routes, carrying charged phones, food, drink, and warm clothing, as avalanches can occur "on any slope and in any orientation" naturally.
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