Tuesday, April 14th, 2026
The Alps are currently experiencing a mixed bag of spring weather as a dynamic storm system sweeps through the region. Reports from high-altitude areas indicate fresh snowfall, while lower elevations are contending with significant rainfall. This volatile weather has contributed to an elevated avalanche risk in several locations, a situation that was foreshadowed in earlier reports. As of Tuesday, the weather is showing signs of stabilization, with only scattered showers of rain and snow anticipated. The trend is expected to become drier as the week progresses, offering a more settled outlook for the remainder of the spring skiing season.
Despite the recent weather disturbances, skiing conditions remain favorable for this time of year, particularly on the higher, north-facing slopes. However, the lower-lying runs have been impacted by the rainfall, leading to some deterioration in their condition. Resorts such as Cervinia in Italy and Zermatt in Switzerland have reported some of the most beneficial snowfall from the recent storm. In France, high-altitude destinations like Tignes and Val Thorens continue to offer excellent spring skiing and snowboarding opportunities, with both resorts scheduled to remain open until the first weekend of May. This extended season allows for late-season enthusiasts to enjoy the mountains.
However, this period also marks the closure of several other resorts. Les Menuires, a popular destination within the Les3Vallees ski area, is among those scheduled to cease operations this coming weekend, signaling the gradual winding down of the traditional ski season in many parts of the Alps.
Monday, April 13th, 2026
The anticipated snowfall and rainfall have begun to impact parts of the Alps, leading to a notable increase in avalanche risk. Skiers and snowboarders venturing off-piste are being strongly advised to exercise extreme caution. This development comes against a backdrop of a particularly concerning winter for avalanche fatalities across Europe, a trend that has been meticulously documented by PlanetSKI.
In the Tirol region of Austria, snowfall above 2,500 meters combined with rain at lower altitudes escalated the avalanche risk to Level 4 (High) on Monday. The province’s avalanche warning service issued urgent advisories, emphasizing the dangers for ski tourers and anyone planning to leave marked pistes. The primary concerns cited were a waterlogged snowpack and the ongoing precipitation.
The highest danger levels were identified in southern North Tirol and northern East Tirol. Experts explain that rainwater is permeating the snowpack, weakening underlying coarse-grained weak layers that formed earlier in the winter. This saturation significantly increases the likelihood of wet snow avalanches becoming unstable and releasing spontaneously. Matthias Walcher from the avalanche warning service highlighted the particular vulnerability of steep west-, north-, and east-facing slopes between 2,200 and 2,500 meters, where spontaneous avalanches are considered especially probable.
Astrid Mair, the Tirol’s safety councillor, underscored the severity of the avalanche situation, characterizing it as dangerous and strongly recommending that all terrain steeper than 30 degrees be avoided.
Across the border in Switzerland, large areas of the Swiss Alps are experiencing an avalanche risk level of 3 (Considerable). The Swiss Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF) has identified Upper Valais as a particular hotspot. Their warnings indicate the potential for both wet and dry avalanches, attributing this to continuous precipitation and inadequate overnight refreezing of the snowpack. This warning covers a significant geographical area, encompassing some of Switzerland’s most renowned high-alpine terrain and popular ski resorts, including Zermatt, Saas-Fee, and the Aletsch Arena.
Both Swiss and Austrian authorities are imploring off-piste skiers and snowboarders to exercise significant restraint, avoid steep inclines, and remain vigilant as avalanche paths may extend into unexpected areas. A forecast for cooler temperatures on Tuesday night is expected to aid the snowpack in refreezing and becoming more stable.
Sunday, April 12th, 2026
Shifting focus away from the European Alps, our attention turns to the Canadian Rockies, specifically Lake Louise near Banff in Alberta. PlanetSKI’s reporting team, Marie Taylor and Alex Cove, who spent two months in Canada earlier this winter, are now back on the ground, providing insights into the continuing winter conditions.
Lake Louise is still experiencing winter-like conditions. Alex Cove, present at the resort over the weekend, described the experience: "Absolutely nobody around today, it was great. We arrived to about 3cm of fresh snow overnight and clouds." He further elaborated, "Most of the day was spent skiing in the trees so we could see, but when the clouds lifted a little, we went up Summit to the top of the ski area and there was some really nice spring snow."
The winter season shows no immediate signs of concluding in Canada, with skiing at nearby Sunshine Village expected to continue into May. Alex and Marie are scheduled to report from Sunshine Village later this month, offering further updates on Canadian snow conditions.
Saturday, April 11th, 2026
Whispers of potential late-season snowfall have emerged for the Alps, with forecasts suggesting the possibility of fresh snow at higher altitudes early next week, particularly in the western Alps. This comes after a period of unseasonably warm temperatures this week, with some alpine valleys recording temperatures as high as 20°C. However, temperatures are now beginning to recede.
One forecast indicates the potential for up to 25cm of new snow in some French resorts early next week. Many high-altitude resorts, including Val Thorens, Val d’Isère, and Tignes, are still open and poised to benefit from this potential snowfall. Similar snow forecasts are in place for Italy, though with a caveat of rain on the lower slopes below 2,000 meters. More than half of Italian resorts remain operational, though many closed after the Easter break. The high-altitude skiing offered in Cervinia, with its connection to the Swiss resort of Zermatt, presents a prime option for Italian skiing.
Switzerland is also anticipating some snowfall, as is Austria, though primarily at higher elevations with the freezing level expected to remain above 2,000 meters. Obergurgl, Ischgl, and Stubai are currently among Austria’s leading destinations for skiing. The weather forecast is expected to become clearer over the weekend, with PlanetSKI committed to providing ongoing updates.
Thursday, April 9th, 2026
Spring conditions continue to prevail in the Alps, characterized by warm temperatures that are accelerating snow melt at lower altitudes. Higher up, particularly on north-facing slopes, piste conditions remain good, though skiers are advised to time their runs carefully due to the ongoing freeze-thaw cycle.
Fraser Wilkin of weathertoski.co.uk reported on Thursday: "After a slight dip in temperatures on Friday, with some showers likely in the eastern Alps, Saturday will again be very warm. After this, there will be a more decisive cool down in the Alps, first in the west on Sunday, then further east late on Monday, and on Tuesday. There is also some snow in the forecast, mostly in the western and south-western Alps to start with (late on Sunday, and on Monday), then probably favouring Austria by Tuesday." He recommended consulting weathertoski.co.uk for the latest detailed forecasts.
Many resorts are currently hosting spring events, taking advantage of the favorable weather. Zermatt is currently hosting its annual "Zermatt Unplugged" music festival, adding a cultural dimension to the spring skiing experience. Tignes is also scheduled to host a series of events throughout April.
Steve Angus, reporting from Tignes/Val d’Isère for PlanetSKI, provided a recent update on the local weather conditions.
Tuesday, April 7th, 2026
Warm spring conditions persist across the Alps, with ski resorts that remain open experiencing typical spring skiing. A dominant high-pressure system over the Alps has pushed the freezing level above 3,000 meters. While conditions can be icy first thing in the morning, the transition to softer snow as the day progresses offers excellent opportunities for "spring snow" skiing, particularly on north-facing slopes.
The current warm spell is anticipated to conclude later in the week, with colder conditions expected. The weather is predicted to become unsettled over the weekend, with some snowfall forecasted for the southern Alps. For those planning a final ski trip before the season’s end, which for some resorts still has four weeks remaining, heading to higher altitudes is strongly recommended.
The avalanche risk remains considerable in certain parts of the Alps, exacerbated by the warm temperatures affecting the snowpack, especially in the afternoons. Current reports from Switzerland on Tuesday indicated a considerable risk, as detailed by the Swiss Institute for Snow & Avalanche Research.
Tragically, the Easter weekend saw an increase in avalanche fatalities across Europe, with eight additional deaths reported.
Easter Update: Monday, April 6th, 2026
High-pressure systems are dominating the weather across the Alps this Easter Monday, bringing abundant sunshine and warm temperatures, with no fresh snowfall expected. This follows a period of generally good snowfall over the preceding two weeks, resulting in excellent spring skiing conditions.
Fraser Wilkin from weathertoski.co.uk noted, "There is therefore a very healthy late-season base in most high resorts, with good cover to relatively low altitudes in some northern areas too. As for snow quality, any un-tracked powder is becoming harder to find; you will need a good local guide to seek out the remaining stashes on high north-facing slopes."
The most recommended late-season resorts according to weathertoski include several in Austria, France, Italy, and Switzerland. PlanetSKI has recently reported on conditions in Val Thorens and the neighboring resort of Les Menuires, both of which are experiencing strong late-season skiing.
Further afield, PlanetSKI reported from Gausta in Norway over Easter, where conditions were also favorable. Reader Helen Gillespie provided insights from Cervinia, Italy, showcasing the impressive snow conditions there.
However, a significant concern remains the considerable avalanche danger in various locations. The warm temperatures are impacting the snowpack, particularly in the afternoons, leading to increased instability. Current reports from Switzerland on Sunday illustrate this situation, with the Swiss Institute for Snow & Avalanche Research highlighting the risks.
The resort claiming the deepest snow in Europe, according to weathertoski, is Arcalis in Andorra, with an impressive 4 meters of snow at its highest points. This highlights the continued excellent late-season conditions available across the European mountains following a generally strong winter season. April is consistently a favorite month for PlanetSKI, offering a unique blend of spring sunshine and reliable snow, and plans are already underway for further reporting from the Alps later in the month.
PlanetSKI remains dedicated to providing comprehensive digital ski news, resort information, travel advice, equipment rental services, and exclusive deals, positioning itself as the premier online platform for all aspects of snowsports.
Thursday, April 9th, 2026
The Alpine regions are currently experiencing a continuation of spring weather, with warmer temperatures leading to melting snow at lower altitudes. Higher elevations, especially north-facing slopes, continue to offer good piste conditions. However, the diurnal freeze-thaw cycle necessitates careful timing for optimal skiing.
Fraser Wilkin, a meteorologist with weathertoski.co.uk, provided an updated forecast on Thursday: "After a slight dip in temperatures on Friday, with some showers likely in the eastern Alps, Saturday will again be very warm. Following this, a more significant cool down is expected in the Alps, commencing in the west on Sunday and spreading eastward late on Monday and into Tuesday. Snowfall is also anticipated, primarily in the western and south-western Alps initially (late Sunday and Monday), with a potential shift favoring Austria by Tuesday." He advised readers to consult weathertoski.co.uk for the most current weather data.
Many resorts are actively hosting spring events, capitalizing on the pleasant weather. Zermatt is currently the venue for the "Zermatt Unplugged" music festival, offering a unique cultural experience alongside its skiing. Tignes is also set to host a series of events throughout April.
Steve Angus, PlanetSKI’s correspondent in Tignes/Val d’Isère, shared a recent weather update from the French resort.
Tuesday, April 7th, 2026
The Alps are experiencing consistently warm spring conditions, with open ski resorts offering typical spring skiing. A high-pressure system currently situated over the Alps has elevated the freezing level to over 3,000 meters. While early mornings may present icy conditions, the transition to softer snow as temperatures rise typically creates excellent "spring snow" opportunities, particularly on north-facing slopes.
This warm spell is expected to conclude later in the week, with cooler temperatures on the horizon. The weekend forecast indicates unsettled weather, with potential snowfall in the southern Alps. For individuals planning a final ski trip, with some resorts still offering skiing for another four weeks, a focus on high-altitude destinations is advised.
The avalanche risk remains considerable in certain areas of the Alps, a situation exacerbated by the daytime warming of the snowpack. Current assessments for Switzerland on Tuesday indicated a considerable risk, as detailed by the Swiss Institute for Snow & Avalanche Research.
The Easter weekend tragically saw an increase in avalanche fatalities across Europe, with eight additional deaths reported.
Easter Update: Monday, April 6th, 2026
High-pressure systems are currently dominating the weather across the Alps, resulting in abundant sunshine and warm temperatures, with no fresh snowfall anticipated. This follows a period of generally good snowfall over the past two weeks, which has led to excellent spring skiing conditions.
Fraser Wilkin of weathertoski.co.uk observed, "There is therefore a very healthy late-season base in most high resorts, with good cover to relatively low altitudes in some northern areas too. As for snow quality, any un-tracked powder is becoming harder to find; you will need a good local guide to seek out the remaining stashes on high north-facing slopes."
According to weathertoski, prime late-season resort destinations include several in Austria, France, Italy, and Switzerland. PlanetSKI has recently provided reports from Val Thorens and the adjacent Les Menuires, both of which are experiencing robust late-season skiing.
Beyond Europe, PlanetSKI has reported from Gausta in Norway over the Easter period, noting favorable conditions. Reader Helen Gillespie has also shared insights from Cervinia, Italy, highlighting the resort’s impressive snow conditions.
However, a significant concern persists regarding the considerable avalanche danger in various locations. The warming temperatures are impacting the snowpack, particularly during the afternoons, leading to increased instability. Current reports from Switzerland on Sunday illustrate this concerning situation, as detailed by the Swiss Institute for Snow & Avalanche Research.
The resort that currently boasts the deepest snow in Europe, according to weathertoski, is Arcalis in Andorra, with an impressive 4 meters recorded at its highest points. This underscores the continuing excellent late-season conditions available across Europe’s mountain ranges, following a generally strong winter season. April is consistently a favored month for PlanetSKI, offering a unique combination of spring sunshine and reliable snow, and plans are already in motion for further reporting from the Alps later in the month.
PlanetSKI is committed to delivering comprehensive digital ski news, resort information, travel advice, equipment rental services, and exclusive deals, establishing itself as the premier online platform for all snowsports enthusiasts.
