J2Ski Forum Posts and Replies by Ranchero_1979

Looking at a map, you will see sand came from the South. Warm weather also comes from South. Sand layer now acting as a slide plane as it came with rain in lot of resorts at certain altitudes. Avalanche itself is not because of sand but is pretty indicative.

Red sky at night, thick skins on onions etc

Avalanches! Everything from south came with a high freezing level and basically all aspects at certain altitudes had rain (made a weird layer) and then snow on top.

I will try and upload some pictures.

Somewhat predictably at least 2 deaths in the French Alps last week.

Stop the French bashing, every ski instructor in France (from all nations) is in complete agreement. His employees are not properly qualified simple as that. No different to people requiring an international driving license or taking new test when living in some countries. Is it racist when my Chinese friend needs to get a driving license in Norway? Guy has been basically been cheating British instructors who have invested time and effort into reaching pinnacle of their chosen profession.

Long term you will regret not having lessons. I would suggest a week of 1/2 day lessons would be the best bet.

Note of caution, this red layer is making conditions a bit scary at moment. Was pretty wet compact snow and acting as a nice slide plane on all aspects up to about 2500m. If your heading offpiste I would suggest you plan on being finished before lunch.

Meteo France now has snow as "above average year" and would certainly agree. Think people read too many stories, conditions in a France are excellent and more snow forecast today. More than enough snow to take resorts into May.

Late season skiing regardless of location is about getting up early making most of it and a late lunch. Get the bin down to town, home runs have always been overrated! If you understand that and resort is ticking your boxes would go for it.

VB was in great shape this morning. We were on it a little later than I would of hoped and sun had done some damage to snow (most of skiing is essentially south facing). Not too bad but some of team would definitely of felt more comfortable had we been an hr earlier. Ski down to town is in great condition so the full 2800m of vertical to be had.

For those currently in Courmayeur all the North facing slopes off Helbronner were looking spectacular. ,teams were putting in some great lines. Definitely worth a look at over weekend.