The ski slopes are set to be very busy this weekend as thousands will want to take advantage of the fresh snow – but there are many avalanche warnings in place and once again, skiers and snow boarders are being urged to stay on the piste.
The Snow and Avalanche Research Institute has issued a level 3 alert across canton Valais – spreading east into Graubünden.
The main danger is on north facing slopes above 2,200 meters.
The Valais cantonal police are urging caution. They say the situation is critical.
Experts say the weather will stay cold – and this means it’ll take longer for the snow pack to stabilize.
The advice is to take an avalanche survival course – available with many mountain clubs. Make sure you have all the right equipment. Don’t head off alone and stay on marked pistes.
Since the start of December, 4 have died in avalanches. On average 21 are killed every season in Switzerland.