A strong northwesterly flow and polar cold air are impacting eastern Alpine regions on Sunday. However, a new frontal system associated with an Atlantic low is approaching from the west, temporarily bringing milder air masses through Monday. A return to northwesterly winds and another cold air outbreak is expected on Tuesday, with significant snowfall anticipated in the western Northern Alps.
Winter Conditions Expected
Sunday begins with lingering clouds and some snowfall along the Northern Alps. This precipitation will diminish throughout the day, lingering longest from the Salzkammergut to the Mariazellerland. Sunny intervals are expected elsewhere, most frequently in the south, where strong north föhn winds will initially blow, shifting to strong northwesterly winds in the east. Winds will decrease throughout the day, with temperatures reaching a maximum of -3 to +3 degrees Celsius.
Snowfall will return to Vorarlberg in the evening, gradually increasing. Overnight into Monday, the snow will transition to rain below approximately 1,000 meters.
The Austrian Weather Center has issued weather warnings for several federal states on Sunday. Strong snowfall is forecast for Vorarlberg and Upper Austria – a red warning level is in effect in the westernmost Austrian state. Strong winds are as well expected in Tyrol, Salzburg, Lower Austria, Burgenland, Carinthia, and Styria.
Monday will be mostly cloudy, with occasional sunshine in the south where conditions will remain largely dry. Snow or rain is expected from Vorarlberg to the Mühl- and Waldviertel regions, particularly heavy in the Arlberg area. The snow line will vary between lower elevations in the east and around 1,000 meters in the west. There is a local risk of icy conditions due to freezing rain in Upper Austria. Thunderstorms are possible on the northern Alpine slopes during the day. Winds will be moderate to brisk from the west, and southeasterly in the east, with high temperatures between 0 and +6 degrees Celsius.
Continued Winter Weather
Tuesday will bring wintry conditions along the Northern Alps, with snowfall extending to lower elevations. Several centimeters of new snow are expected in the western mountains, especially around the Arlberg. Snow and sleet showers are forecast for the lowlands, with sunny spells more frequent in the south. Isolated, light snow showers are also possible there. Winds will pick up from the west to northwest, with high temperatures between 0 and +7 degrees Celsius.
On Wednesday, snowfall will spread from the west across the mountainous regions, turning to rain below approximately 700 meters in the Rhine and Inn valleys, then diminishing. The northeast will remain dry with some sunny spells, while the south will spot a few flakes or raindrops at lower elevations. Winds will subside, and temperatures will range from 0 to +7 degrees Celsius.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current weather situation?
The eastern Alpine region is experiencing a strong northwesterly flow and polar cold air on Sunday, with a frontal system bringing temporary milder air through Monday before another cold air outbreak on Tuesday.
Which regions are under weather warnings?
Weather warnings are in effect for Vorarlberg, Upper Austria, Tyrol, Salzburg, Lower Austria, Burgenland, Carinthia, and Styria, with a red warning level for strong snowfall in Vorarlberg.
What can be expected on Tuesday?
Tuesday will bring wintry conditions along the Northern Alps with snowfall, particularly in the western mountains around the Arlberg, and snow/sleet showers in the lowlands.
Will these fluctuating conditions impact travel plans for residents and visitors in the affected regions?
