If you’re skiing or touring in northern Italy this week, conditions have turned seriously unstable in the last few hours.
According to the latest ARPAV avalanche bulletin, published at 3 p.m. today, danger levels will rise to Level 4 (Strong) on Thursday in the Veneto Pre-Alps, with Level 3 (Considerable) conditions across the Dolomites. Avalanche risk could climb even higher if snowfall exceeds current forecasts.
An intense storm system is hammering the region, dropping significant snow on top of an already fragile snowpack. So far, up to 30 cm (12 inches) of fresh snow has fallen in the Pre-Alps above 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), while the Dolomites have picked up around 15 cm (6 inches)—with much more on the way.
The fresh snow is falling onto a poorly bonded surface layer left over from last weekend, which itself sits on deep, persistent weak layers made up of angular crystals—a classic recipe for avalanches. Under these conditions, both spontaneous avalanches and human-triggered slides are likely, even from something as light as a single skier or rider. Medium-sized avalanches are expected, and large avalanches are possible if deeper layers are activated.
Related: Exploring Dolomiti Superski: A 4-Day Adventure Through the Heart of the Alps
Snowfall is expected to continue through Thursday morning, January 29, with an additional 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) forecast in the Dolomites and 25–40 cm (10–16 inches) forecast in the Pre-Alps above 6,500 feet. In some Pre-Alpine zones, total storm snowfall could approach 70 cm (nearly 28 inches).
With relatively light winds, the main avalanche problems are new snow and persistent weak layers, rather than wind slabs — meaning danger is widespread, not just isolated to leeward slopes.
The Pre-Alps, where danger will reach Level 4 (Strong), include terrain near resorts such as Asiago, Monte Grappa, and Passo Brocon — areas popular for backcountry touring when conditions allow.
In the Dolomites, home to marquee resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo, Arabba, Val Gardena, Alta Badia, and Marmolada, danger is rated Level 3 (Considerable). However, ARPAV warned that southern Dolomite zones could be upgraded to Level 4 if snowfall totals exceed expectations.
Forecasters warn that avalanches may impact classic avalanche paths and runout zones, including areas that are normally considered manageable.
Skiers and snowboarders are urged to:
Avoid steep slopes
Keep a wide margin from rock faces and avalanche gullies
Treat “whumpf” noises or surface cracking as immediate red flags
From Friday, January 30, avalanche danger is expected to ease slightly to Level 3 (Considerable) across the region — still serious conditions that demand conservative decision-making.
There’s snow to be had, but the margin for error is thin. If you’re heading into the Italian Alps this week or are already there, keep it mellow, respect the bulletin, and don’t let fresh tracks cloud your judgment.
The post Avalanche Danger Spikes in Northern Italy as Heavy Snow Slams Dolomites & Pre-Alps appeared first on SnowBrains.
Ссылка на источник: https://snowbrains.com/avalanche-danger-spikes-in-northern-italy-as-heavy-snow-slams-dolomites-pre-alps/