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Storm Xynthia brings havoc to some Midi-Pyrenees ski resorts in South West France.

The Midi-Pyrenees region initially appeared to have missed the worst of the storm that hit France over the weekend.  From where I sit in the Hautes-Pyrenees at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains, you would not think we had had a serious storm.  Yes, there were very strong winds and some branches came down, but that was it. 

Reports from the ski resorts give a different picture however, with exceptionally high winds causing severe damage to some ski lifts and snow cannons.  There have been no reports of injuries or deaths, but this is due to the resorts reacting quickly and clearing the slopes in advance of the storm.

Some of the resorts have been so badly affected that they may remain closed until next season.  Luckily for them, the busiest period is almost over, with the end of the French school holidays, but they will still lose some vital income over the next few weeks.

The other major factor from the skiing point of view is the temperatures.  During the storm, with the strong southerly wind, the temperature at 600 metres was twenty degrees.  Much of the snowfall from earlier in February has gone, leaving bare slopes in places.

Hautacam is closed and is likely to remain so until next season.  Luchon, Val Louron and Val d’Azun are reporting fifty percent or less of the resort open, although Peyragudes, which is in between Luchon and Louron is claiming ninety percent of the resort open.

With a distinct lack of any snow in the area and the storm damage, do not expect to find perfect pistes anywhere.  If in doubt, contact the resort before travelling.  Contact information for Midi-Pyrenees resorts can be found in our ski resort information pages.

Below is breakdown of the current situation around the Midi-Pyrenees ski resorts.

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