A historic late-season snowstorm has brought chaos to the Alps, forcing the closure of some of Europe’s most renowned ski resorts, including Zermatt in Switzerland and Val d’Isère in France. The storm, described by meteorologists as the largest of the 2024-25 season, dumped record amounts of snow across the western Alps, with some areas receiving over a meter (more than three feet) of fresh snow in just 24 hours. This unprecedented snowfall has raised the avalanche risk to its highest level, prompting authorities to shut down ski areas and restrict access to mountain communities.
In Switzerland’s canton of Valais, the impact has been particularly severe. Rail and road links to iconic resorts like Zermatt were cut off, leaving towns isolated and without power. The Simplon and Grand St-Bernard passes, critical routes connecting Switzerland and Italy, were closed due to deep snow, while villages such as Simplon Dorf and Gondo became inaccessible from the Swiss side. Public transport was severely disrupted, with major rail connections suspended and no alternative routes available.
French resorts have also been hit hard. In Val d’Isère, the entire ski area was closed as avalanche danger reached the rare maximum rating of 5/5. Snowfall totals in the region have been staggering, with Tignes reporting 105 centimeters (over three feet) in a single day and Val d’Isère recording 1.2 meters (nearly four feet). Other resorts in the French Alps, such as Les Menuires, Chamonix, and La Plagne, have posted similar figures, while Italy’s La Thuile saw 60 centimeters (two feet) in 24 hours. The storm’s intensity has also led to concerns over flooding and landslides at lower elevations, compounding the disruption.
With avalanche risk at “exceptional” levels and further heavy precipitation forecast, authorities have urged residents and travelers to avoid unnecessary journeys and heed safety warnings. While about 80% of ski areas had already ended their seasons, those still open have been forced to close slopes and access roads, with strict bans on off-piste skiing. As crews work to restore essential services and clear transport routes, the Alps face ongoing challenges from both the snow and the threat of avalanches, marking an extraordinary end to the ski season.
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(Source: Snow Brains | The White Room Snow Forecast | Weather to Ski)
