The 2024/2025 winter season presents an unusual picture in the Swiss Alps: the snow cover in many places is well below the long-term average. The usual amount of snow is lacking in the foothills of the Alps and at medium altitudes in particular, while there is at least a minimum amount of snow in higher regions. Numerous meteorological reports confirm that the mild weather, stable high-pressure systems and lower precipitation levels have led to a noticeably thinner snow cover this winter. This is in line with our own experiences in the mountains: on tours in the Alps, we not only experience the beauty of the winter landscape, but also the changes that have become increasingly apparent over the last few years.
Less snow due to mild temperatures and high pressure conditions
The reasons for the below-average amount of snow are complex. Stable high-pressure systems have dominated the weather in recent months, bringing plenty of sunshine but little snow. Temperatures were often above the long-term average, which not only led to less snowfall, but also meant that the snow that had already fallen melted more quickly. At medium altitudes in particular, the snow cover barely held on, while at lower altitudes it often remained completely snow-free. Larger amounts of snow fell at higher altitudes, but here too, above-average temperatures caused the snow to melt more quickly. Weather experts from MeteoNews and the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research confirm that this winter is considered to have had little snow in many regions of Switzerland. In the southern Alps, Valais and eastern Graubünden in particular, the amount of snow is sometimes only 30 to 60 percent of the long-term average. A look at the measuring stations shows that never before has so little snow been measured on the Weissfluhjoch at this time of year as this winter.
A changing nature experience
Despite the small amount of snow, the season has its own charms. The often cloudless days bathe the Alps in an intense light that makes the snow-covered peaks glow in brilliant white. While the first signs of spring can already be seen at lower altitudes, cold nights and fresh snowfall in higher regions continue to create a wintry atmosphere. For winter sports enthusiasts, this means remaining flexible and targeting regions with sufficient snow. It is advisable to set off early to take advantage of the best snow conditions in the cooler morning hours. Alternatively, hikes and [trail runs](/trail running) are a good way to discover the changing landscape in all its facets. Current developments show that climate change is also becoming increasingly noticeable in the Alps. Nevertheless, the fascination of the mountains remains unbroken - they challenge us to consciously experience their beauty in every change.
