Meribel Snow Report: 22nd December 2011

Continuous heavy snowfall down to 800m has given way to a rain/sleet mix mid week resulting in poor visibility above the mid stations. Virtually all the lifts and valley links are now open and deep powder drifts between pistes are providing huge fun for skiers everywhere. Absolute prudence is required further off-piste as the avalanche risk is hovering at 4/5 this week, prompting reminders from the authorities to only venture off-piste when accompanied by a qualified guide. Excellent advice.

On piste the snow is good although a little heavy in places due to the damp conditions at the moment. There is currently over 2m depth at the top of the Saulire and over 70cm at the Chaudanne ensuring fab piste conditions right through the holiday period.

Amid deteriorating weather Meribel successfully hosted the FIS World Cup Freestyle competition on Tuesday. Local boy Sacha Theocharis came ninth in the dual moguls event. Well done to him.

The week is expected to end on a high with clear skies and sunny weather on Friday - and the forecast is for this to carry through the weekend into the Christmas week. Bon Ski!