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Austria Joins France and Switzerland in Issuing Red Travel Avalanche Warnings for Alpine Regions, Following a Series of Heavy Winter Storms
As of February 20, 2026, authorities in Switzerland, Austria, and France have issued urgent alerts due to significant avalanche danger following a series of heavy winter storms. These countries are now facing Level 4 (High) and Level 5 (Very High) danger ratings in various Alpine regions, prompting local governments to take precautionary measures and issue travel warnings. The unstable snowpack, coupled with persistent storms, has created a perilous environment, particularly in popular ski resorts and mountain routes.
Who Is Affected by the Avalanche Risk?
Avalanche conditions have placed large portions of the Alpine regions of Switzerland, Austria, and France under serious threat. These countries have been monitoring the situation closely, issuing severe warnings to locals and visitors alike. The regions under the highest threat are:
- Switzerland: The Cantons of Valais and Graubünden are at Danger Level 4 (High), with Level 3 (Considerable) ratings across much of the rest of the country, including Central Switzerland and the Bernese Oberland.
- Austria: In Tyrol and Vorarlberg, the avalanche risk is also rated at Level 4 (High), following a string of avalanche incidents, including fatal ones in St. Anton am Arlberg, Nauders, and Klösterle.
- France: The Northern Alps, including popular resorts such as Val d’Isère and Tignes, are at Danger Level 5 (Very High), the highest possible rating. Other areas, such as Savoie, Haute-Savoie, Isère, and Hautes-Alpes, are at Level 4 (High).
These areas have experienced conditions where avalanches can occur spontaneously, without the need for external triggers, putting all travel activities in danger.
What Caused the Avalanche Danger?
The avalanches in these regions are driven by a combination of factors that forecasters have described as a “deadly recipe” for extreme danger:
1. Persistent Weak Layers
Earlier snowfalls, especially from early January 2026, have led to the development of unstable layers beneath the recent snow. These older, weaker snow layers are being overloaded by heavy snowfall from the most recent storms, creating the perfect conditions for large avalanches to be triggered.
2. Heavy Snowfall from Recent Storms
Two major storms, Storm Nils and its predecessor, brought more than a meter of fresh snow to the region in just a few days. This significant snow accumulation has added immense weight to the already unstable snowpack, further destabilizing the snow layers and increasing the risk of avalanches.
3. Wind Slabs
Strong winds have compounded the problem by creating thick “wind slabs” of snow that rest on top of the unstable layers. These wind slabs can slide easily under the right conditions, often triggered by the weight of a skier or snowboarder.
Together, these elements have created an environment where avalanches are highly likely and very dangerous for anyone caught in the affected regions.
What Are the Current Danger Levels?
The avalanche risk levels for February 2026, as outlined by national weather agencies and avalanche experts, include:
- Switzerland: The Cantons of Valais and Graubünden are rated at Danger Level 4 (High), with experts warning that avalanches can be triggered very easily. Authorities have already begun preemptive road closures in these areas, particularly along exposed mountain passes and high-altitude routes. Many other alpine regions in Switzerland are at Danger Level 3 (Considerable).
- Austria: In Tyrol and Vorarlberg, avalanche danger is rated at Level 4 (High), with more than 30 avalanche incidents recorded on February 18 alone. Tragically, at least five fatalities have been confirmed, primarily in St. Anton am Arlberg, Nauders, and Klösterle.
- France: Météo-France has issued its highest possible rating of Danger Level 5 (Very High) for Val d’Isère and Tignes, as well as other areas in the Northern Alps. Other regions, such as Savoie, Haute-Savoie, and Hautes-Alpes, remain at Level 4 (High). The French authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and closed entire ski areas.
What Measures Are Being Taken to Protect Travelers?
Authorities across all three countries have issued clear guidelines to mitigate the risks of these hazardous avalanche conditions:
Travel Restrictions and Closures
- Switzerland: Roads and access paths in high-risk areas have been closed, and many mountain passes have been shut down. Local authorities have issued warnings about exposed transportation routes, urging travelers to avoid non-essential travel through affected areas.
- Austria: Public transport systems, including rail services, are operating at reduced speeds through avalanche-prone areas, particularly in Tyrol. Airport shuttle services from Innsbruck are being rerouted to Munich due to road hazards.
- France: Entire ski resorts have been closed, including Val d’Isère and Tignes, as the avalanche risk reaches unprecedented levels. Local authorities have imposed a blanket advisory to stay indoors and avoid traveling in avalanche-prone areas.
Emergency Response and Assistance
- Emergency Services: In all three countries, local police and mountain rescue teams are on high alert, prepared to assist those stranded or at risk. Emergency shelters and supplies are being set up in affected regions.
- Monitoring: Local agencies are continually monitoring snow conditions using real-time data from the European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS). These updates are available to the public, with advisories updated regularly.
How Are Skiers and Snowboarders Affected?
As expected, the most affected by the avalanche danger are those involved in off-piste skiing or snowboarding. These activities are particularly hazardous under the current conditions, with authorities strongly advising against backcountry skiing. Skiers and snowboarders are urged to stay on marked, open trails and adhere to all safety regulations set by resort management.
Travel Alerts
The U.S. Embassies in Bern, Vienna, and Paris have coordinated efforts to issue alerts for American travelers. The embassies have emphasized that tourists should monitor local weather and avalanche advisories, particularly in the affected ski regions, and comply with all local restrictions.
Recommended Safety Gear
Travelers who must travel through Alpine corridors or affected regions are advised to carry snow chains for vehicles and ensure they are equipped with emergency supplies. In case of road closures or accidents, having the necessary safety equipment could be life-saving.
How Long Will the Danger Last?
Aviation and weather experts have stated that this situation could persist until early March 2026, as the current La Niña weather pattern continues to bring intense winter storms to Europe. While conditions are expected to improve in the coming days, the avalanche danger will likely remain high until the snow stabilizes and the storm systems pass.
What Are the Long-Term Impacts?
This avalanche crisis could have significant long-term impacts on the Alpine tourism industry. Ski resorts may be forced to delay or cancel bookings as the snow levels stabilize, while transportation systems in affected regions may face extended disruptions.
Furthermore, the fatalities reported in Austria have underscored the life-threatening risks posed by the current avalanche conditions. While experts continue to monitor the situation, travelers and locals alike must prioritize safety above all else.
Conclusion: Immediate Action Required
The avalanche danger across Switzerland, Austria, and France remains extreme as winter storms continue to cause widespread instability in snow conditions. Travel restrictions, closures, and emergency responses are in place across affected areas, and travelers are urged to heed warnings and stay informed through official channels.
With the risk expected to persist in the coming weeks, all individuals in the Alps, whether skiing, hiking, or simply traveling, are strongly advised to follow safety guidelines, avoid high-risk areas, and carry proper safety equipment. The avalanche season of 2026 is proving to be one of the most dangerous in recent memory, and caution is paramount for anyone planning to visit or travel through the Alpine regions.
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