CHAM DUMP: Finally snow falls in the valley

Though it wasn’t exactly blower, precipitation finally graced the Chamonix Valley in the form of a big wet dump last night and today. After a two-hour wait at Les Grand Montets midstation, the gates finally opened and a powder starved crowd stormed the 30-40 cm of fresh.

After three weeks of bone dry conditions and endless bluebird days, the new pack was much needed. Though the upper mountain remained closed, fun, deep turns were found off Marmottons, Plan Roujon and La Tabe. Avalanche danger is beyond high, as numerous natural and manmade slabs released in multiple areas.

By midafternoon snow turned to sleet and temperatures were high enough to turn the deep to dangerous. Forecasts are calling for another 20-30 cm tonight, whith temperatures dropping.

Finally, things seem to be shaping up in the Valley...