Ski resorts in the Alps have reported another big snowfall over the weekend with 30-60cm (1-2 foot) falls widely reported, some as much as a metre (3.3 feet).
It continues what has been one of the snowiest Novembers this century and appears to leave Europe in one of its strongest positions for the start of a ski season for several years.
Nearly 100 ski areas are already open and several (Ischgl/Samnaun and Val Thorens) have up to 150km (nearly 100 miles) of runs open already.
The latest snowfall comes with some very low temperatures reported in the Alps – double-digits below freezing at altitude and only getting a degree or two above freezing in valleys, allowing the snowfall to reach low elevations. More of the same is forecast over coming days.
Alongside all the snowfall strong winds have closed some high centres at times, especially glacier resorts, and the avalanche danger has reached a high level 4 on the scale to a maximum 5 already in parts of the Alps.
The heavy snowfall was particularly reported down to low elevations in Austria at the start of the week then in France on Tuesday, with Tignes pictured top. Some resorts have had to stress they are really posting current November images, not library pics, on their social media feeds. Including at Lech, where the ski season starts this coming weekend, below. The Zillertal Arena is pictured top.
We have a regular Podcast called The White Out where we review the latest gear, talk about the latest snow forecast and updates on where is best to ski now, as well interviews with absolute ski legends AND we spotlight a resort every week and so much more. You can check out our regular podcast here Apple | Spotify | Podcasts or search The White Out on your chosen podcast directory.
