Snow arrives in the Atlas

[Hansiger]

Hi all,
Just a quick post to say that the last two days have seen the start of winter, or at least the first proper snow in the Atlas.

Here some pics including some of a biker heading the other way.

I crossed the Tizi n'Ticka and Test roads about 9 days ago on the way South, all fine. Nice and warm, sunshine.

Wanted to head back to the north via Midlet and got to Rich the day before yesterday (7/01/10) at about 15:00 and was turned back due to heavy snow fall - all the vehicles coming the other way looked weather beaten and covered in snow, there was strong wind and the cloud in the mountains looked foreboding.

Decided to head back to Marrakesh via Ouarzazate and the Ticka. Hit there about 12pm yesterday with the midday sun and the mountains were covered in snow from the night before. The snow ploughs had been through and with the help of the sun meant it was just about manageable. Lots of traffic build up and waiting with a few spots of deep slush. In some small places the road was covered with compacted snow making the downhill corners interesting. The gritters had also spread a lot of gravel adding some additional flavour to the whole thing.

I would say if the snow continues the passes will be very difficult soon.
Get there for midday if you are going over to make the most of the midday melt.
Rain is forecast for today in the lowlands, so guessing that means more snow in the mountains.

Have fun.
Hans

[Trix]

great pics where are heading from and to.