Storm Oriana batters the Pyrenees with 150 km/h wind gusts

Ski resorts closed and emergency alerts issued as heavy snow and extreme winds disrupt the mountain region.

Generic image of snow and wind conditions in the Pyrenees during storm Oriana.
IA

Generic image of snow and wind conditions in the Pyrenees during storm Oriana.

The Oriana storm has brought severe weather to the Pyrenees this February 15th, with record wind speeds and heavy snowfall forcing major disruptions across the region.

According to the Meteorological Service of Catalonia, wind gusts peaked at 150 km/h in Boí and 130 km/h in Espot. These extreme conditions led FGC to close its ski resorts. Civil Protection activated the Es-Alert system, sending emergency messages to residents' mobile phones advising against outdoor activities.
Road travel has been severely impacted, with closures on the C-28 at Bonaigua Pass and the BV-4031. Firefighters responded to over 30 calls in the Lleida area, mostly regarding fallen trees and debris. In Estaràs, a residential wall collapsed due to the wind, though no injuries were reported.
Despite official warnings, traffic jams exceeding 10 kilometers were reported on the N-145 towards Andorra. The avalanche risk remains high at level 4 out of 5 in the Aran Valley. Local festivities, including Carnival parades in Tremp and traditional dances in la Seu d'Urgell, have been postponed or cancelled.