Heavy Snowfall Forecast for the Chablais Alps and Surrounding Regions
A strong westerly circulation is set to bring significant snowfall to Switzerland and surrounding areas in the coming days. This pattern indicates frequent precipitation, strong winds, and substantial snow accumulation, particularly along the northern slopes of the Alps and in the Chablais/Unterwallis region. The fluctuating snow line presents challenges for lower-lying villages.
Current Conditions and Forecast (Now through Thursday)
Wednesday sees cloudy conditions with persistent precipitation, focused along the northern Alpine slopes. Strong southwesterly to westerly winds are expected, becoming locally stormy at higher elevations and in the Jura mountains. The snow line currently sits between 1200 and 1500 meters.
The Chablais/Unterwallis and Mont Blanc massif are expected to experience the most intense snowfall, with potential accumulations of 30 to 60 cm above 2000 meters. The northern Alpine slopes may witness 10 to 30 cm above approximately 1700 meters, while northern and central Graubünden will experience more intermittent snowfall, with accumulations of 5 to 10 cm.
Thursday: Renewed Snowfall
Thursday will remain largely overcast with continued precipitation, especially along the Alps and in the western “catchment areas.” The snow line will lower to between 1100 and 1400 meters (northern side/Western Switzerland), offering more favorable conditions for villages and valley runs.
Expect 10 to 40 cm of additional snowfall on the northern Alpine slopes above 1400 meters. Oberwallis may receive 15 to 30 cm above 1200 meters, while the Chablais/Unterwallis and Mont Blanc massif could see an additional 50 to 70 cm above 1800 meters.
Friday: A Brief Respite
Friday offers a temporary break, with decreasing precipitation in the morning and increasing sunshine, particularly in Wallis. The snow line will rise to approximately 900 to 1200 meters. Most areas will see only a few extra centimeters of snow, primarily in the morning.
Snow Accumulation Totals Through the Weekend
Here’s an estimate of snowfall in key Swiss ski areas through the start of the spring break:
- Aletsch Arena: 38 cm (snow line between 800 and 1300 meters)
- Zermatt: 42 cm (snow line between 800 and 1600 meters)
- Saas-Fee: 68 cm (snow line between 900 and 1400 meters)
- Adelboden: 55 cm (snow line between 300 and 1400 meters)
- Arosa Lenzerheide: 20 cm (snow line between 100 and 1400 meters)
- Davos Klosters: 42 cm (snow line between 100 and 1300 meters)
Weekend Outlook: Colder and Wintery
Saturday will see increasing cloud cover and renewed precipitation, focused along the northern Alpine slopes. The snow line may drop to around 900 meters and potentially lower into the valleys. Sunday will start with some residual cloud and light snow, then become drier and sunnier, with cloud returning from the west in the evening. Further snow showers are anticipated early next week.
Rainfall in Lower-Lying Villages
Yes, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday. With a snow line often between 1200 and 1500 meters, villages below this elevation can expect rain or a rain/wet snow mix, potentially for extended periods. Snow near the snow line will be slushy, and visibility may be reduced.
Conditions are expected to improve from Friday and Saturday, as the snow line drops to around 900 meters, with the possibility of snow reaching lower valleys.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the current snow line? The snow line is currently between 1200 and 1500 meters.
- Which areas will receive the most snow? The Chablais/Unterwallis and Mont Blanc massif are expected to receive the highest snowfall totals.
- Will lower-lying villages experience rain? Yes, lower-lying villages may experience rain or a rain/wet snow mix, especially on Wednesday and Thursday.
- What is the forecast for the weekend? The weekend will be colder and wintery, with renewed snowfall and a lowering snow line.
Pro Tip: Always check local weather reports and avalanche bulletins before venturing into the mountains, especially during periods of heavy snowfall.
What are your plans for enjoying the fresh powder? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
