Val Thorens Avalanches: Ski Area Closure and Critical Injury

Val Thorens Faces Avalanche Crisis

Val Thorens ski resort in the French Alps has experienced a series of avalanches, resulting in one critical injury and the complete closure of the ski area. Local authorities have elevated the avalanche risk to the highest possible level, level 5 out of 5, following days of heavy snowfall.

The Val Thorens village at night time. Credit: Val Thorens

The incident began early in the day when a person was buried under snow near the resort entrance. Emergency teams quickly responded, recovering the victim in cardiac arrest. The individual was transported to Grenoble hospital and remains in critical condition.

Four avalanches occurred in the morning, with two in Val Thorens and two in nearby Les Menuires. Weather experts described the event as an 'extreme weather-snowfall event', with over one metre of fresh snow accumulating at high elevations. In response, the ski area was immediately closed, with a gradual reopening planned for April 18, subject to weather conditions and safety assessments.

The current Val Thorens trail map as part of Les 3 Vallées. Credit: Val Thorens

A safety lockdown is currently in effect across Val Thorens. Residents and visitors are advised to remain inside secure buildings. The road connecting Les Menuires and Val Thorens has been closed until further notice.

The Savoie prefecture has warned that the avalanche risk will remain extremely high in the coming days and advises against all mountain activities outside secured ski slopes. Avalanche bulletins indicate the potential for large, spontaneous slides that could reach valley floors and ski infrastructure.

Val Thorens, located in the Tarentaise Valley, is part of the Three Valleys ski area, the largest linked ski area in the world. Known for its high altitude and typically reliable snow conditions, the resort usually offers skiing from November to May. However, this extreme weather event has highlighted the unpredictable nature of alpine conditions and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines in ski resorts.