Snow Forecast Summary - 10th January 2010
Snow Forecast Summary - 10th January 2010
Published : 08-Jan-2010 09:29
We don't know where to start this week... :D :D :DIf you're in the UK you may be a little fed up with snow right now, especially if you're heading out to the mountains, but it will be good when you get there!
Flying - As we write this (08:00 Friday morning), the major airports are open but warn of continuing disruption to flights. More snow is expected (for the UK) this weekend and you are advised to check with your airline before travelling - and leave plenty of time for your journey.
Driving - Ferries are currently operating normally. Eurostar are continuing to run a restricted service through Sunday, but say the Ski services are unaffected. Also worth noting is that Eurotunnel are running their "annual safety exercise" overnight from Saturday (9th) to Sunday and you are advised to ensure you are on time for your booked crossing.
If driving to The Alps at any point over the next week you should expect winter driving conditions; there is widespread snow and more is forecast. We strongly advise the use of winter tyres and chains are essential - pack them so you can get at them, and don't forget the gloves and the torch (Murphy's Law dictates that the very first time you use chains, it will be -20C and dark).
Europe this week
The good news (really) is that the snow is just about all over everywhere. It has been between cold and extremely cold for the past seven days, with heavy snow bringing superb piste conditions across The Alps. All the major European ski areas now have excellent conditions, with a couple of dozen ski resorts across Austria, France, Italy and Switzerland now boasting depths of more than 2 metres. Scotland is currently described as "phenomenal" with 5 feet of fresh snow since Christmas!
Outside the Alpine area, the picture is more mixed - Sierra Nevada now has 2 metres of snow, whilst the Pyrenees have about half that. Eastern European countries generally have good cover, though some resorts do need more snow.
Weather and Snow Next Week
The forecast models are consistently showing colder than average temperatures for the next couple of weeks. Significant snowfall is expected throughout the Alpine region over the next couple of days and it looks like it's going to keep on coming.
AVALANCHE RISK - PLEASE READ
All this snow comes at a price. More than twenty skiers and climbers have lost their lives in avalanches since Christmas; in France, Italy, Scotland and Switzerland.
There is elevated risk in many areas, across Europe, and you should thoroughly assess local conditions before venturing off piste. The general Avalanche Risk Level is currently 3 (Considerable) for large areas of Switzerland and France presently, and may be higher locally. As always, never ski off piste alone and always go equipped.
If in doubt - take another route!
Enjoy the snow, and stay safe,
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