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As the February half-term approaches, ski enthusiasts planning trips to Europe face challenges due to the unseasonably warm temperatures impacting many resorts. About 24% of ski resorts across Europe have closed due to the higher-than-average temperatures, creating difficulties for those seeking optimal skiing conditions.
France:
France, particularly in the Pyrenees, has experienced hot weather, leading to a lack of snow in several resorts. While certain areas have seen thawing snow, heavy early-season snowfall has left some regions, like Les Arcs, with a solid snowpack up to 4.2 metres high. The 3 Valleys locale reports that 95% of its runs will remain open.
Switzerland:
Switzerland, known for its luxurious destinations, has seen many resorts shut down due to warmer temperatures. However, high-altitude resorts like Laax, Verbier, and the Four Valleys maintain around 95% of their terrain open, with Laax reporting the country’s deepest snow on its glacier at over 3.5 metres.
Eastern Europe:
Eastern European destinations such as Slovakia and Bulgaria have reported good conditions at high altitudes, although lower runs may have less snow. Resorts in these regions, like Jasna and Borovets, announce that most of their runs are open with ideal conditions.
Austria:
With most resorts remaining open, Austria has not faced hot temperatures compared to other regions. Higher altitudes in Austria have seen fresh snowfall, with Kitzsteinhorn in the west reporting snow depths of approximately 25cm.
Italy:
In Italy, the Dolomites have been more affected than the Alps, but 75% of resorts in the Milky Way region, including Sauze d’Oulx and Sestriere, remain open despite temperatures exceeding 10°C.
Scandinavia:
Scandinavia faces challenges from gale-force winds, particularly impacting Norwegian resorts. Voss in western Norway reports base depths of around 2 metres.
Scotland:
While not a conventional choice, Scotland has become an alternative for skiing trips. All five ski centres operated simultaneously in January, but intense gales and record-high temperatures led to closures. Conditions have improved, but travellers are advised to check the current snowfall before planning a trip.
As climate-related challenges persist, skiing enthusiasts are encouraged to choose destinations with favourable conditions carefully and stay updated on the latest weather reports.
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