Turbulent weather in The Three Valleys

Crazy weather conditions that have produced varying air temperatures, snow, rain and wind currently leave the avalanche risk at 5 out of 5. This means there is extreme danger and skiers should stay vigilant at all times. It is rare to see a risk rating of 5 so it is more important than ever not to take risks or venture off alone into unknown or closed terrain.

Summit lift links between Courchevel and Meribel remain closed today, January 5th, due to wind and safety concerns. Avalanches can be seen around the Saulire couloirs as evidence of the current dangers.

Thankfully, conditions are settling down into the weekend with bright spells through Friday and Saturday. Temperatures remain just above freezing which is helping to mitigate icy patches on the slopes. Pistes are once again busy as the New Year's skiers finally get a clear dry day on the hill.

Gladly, huge swathes of snow still remain across the ski area despite the rainfall. The busy pistes will take a little time to get back to their best but, as snowfall returns and peak weeks finish, skiing should be back to its best. Higher altitudes, above 2000 metres, have received excellent snowfall. Once the Saulire and Vizelle lifts reopen, you can expect the best skiing to be found in these areas.

The packed powder pistes still retain incredible depth with 210cms at the summit and around 190cms base everywhere else from Le Praz 1300 up to Courchevel 1850. Above 2000 metres, 41cms of new snow has been recorded over the past 72 hours. Currently, 85 out of 100 trails continue to be open with 44 of 52 lifts available. As mentioned above, there are still a few closures including Chanrossa and Creux Noir due to safety concerns.

This weekend signals settled cloudy weather with air temperatures hovering around 0ºC. Arrivals and transfers into resort should be smooth now the roads are clear and minimal snowfall before Monday.

Sunday night looks set to see a snowy return, particularly above 2000 metres. Low cloud and snow are likely to continue through Monday night with around 25 to 30 cms predicted over 24 hours at higher altitudes. There may be a little bit more rain in lower areas.

Colder conditions will then return through Tuesday before the sun finally glistens the valley on Wednesday. This could be the perfect opportunity for a big ski day and head over to Val Thorens in calmer conditions. Life should be a lot quieter around the pistes as the New Year crowd dissipates.

For the best skiing conditions stick to higher altitudes where possible, the snow should be a lot more pleasant. You’ll be a lot happier skiing in the snow rather than the rain. If you’re looking for a place to dry off and warm up, head to Aquamotion near Courchevel Village 1550. The free shuttle bus takes you right to the front door and there’s something to enjoy for everyone. Relaxing hot pools and spas, water slides, climbing walls and a surf machine are all ready for a warming afternoon.

Eliot Prince is a freelance writer with a focus on the ski industry, he offers services to small and bespoke companies.