Heavy Snow Disrupts Alpine Resorts as Avalanches Threaten Safety

A significant snowfall event has engulfed the Alps, stranding tourists in resorts like Zermatt and prompting safety measures in Tignes due to avalanche risks.

The picturesque Swiss and French Alps have come under siege from heavy snowfall, disrupting holiday plans as communities face severe weather conditions. The ski resort of Zermatt in Switzerland was effectively isolated, while the Tignes resort in France advised tourists and residents to remain indoors to ensure safety amid avalanche warnings.

On Thursday, Tignes Mayor Serge Revial announced the need for protective measures due to over a meter of fresh snow that blanketed the area, raising concerns about avalanches. This late April snowfall, while not unprecedented, has resulted in significant disruption, leaving thousands without power across the Savoie region of eastern France.

In Switzerland, snow closures included the Simplon Pass connecting to Italy, as well as the Great St Bernard Tunnel, causing major inconvenience for travelers. High-altitude disruptions heavily affected regions including Valais and Bernese Oberland, with transport routes cut off and power outages plaguing the resort town of Zermatt. Local media reported long queues outside the town’s only open supermarket as residents faced challenges with food supplies due to the severe conditions.

Authorities have issued warnings via the Alertswiss app regarding risks of avalanches and falling trees in Valais, along with substantial disruptions in transportation. Schools in the city of Sion were closed as a precaution, complicating matters for families.

Travelers heading to the region for the Easter holiday have been urged to postpone their visits until Saturday, with local police recommending staying indoors whenever possible due to the extreme weather.

South of Zermatt, the Aosta Valley in north-west Italy also experienced power outages impacting 37 municipalities. In addition to snow, heavy rainfall caused rivers in the area to overflow, with reports of flooding in homes and infrastructure challenges, including a bridge collapse in Biella, Piedmont.

Residents described relentless rain over several days, with significant levels recorded across the region, leading to emergency alerts for potential flooding along the River Po and other waterways. As the adverse weather persists, authorities remain vigilant, ensuring the safety of affected communities.