Big Snowfall Hits the Alps – Winter Has Arrived!

Great news for skiers! The long wait for snow is finally over – wintry conditions have swept across the Alps, bringing with them the first heavy snowfall of the season. Early this week, the French Alps were transformed into a winter wonderland as thick snow blanketed resorts in Savoie and across the Italian border, raising excitement levels among ski fans across Europe.

As rain fell across much of France on Sunday and Monday (October 19–20), temperatures dropped sharply in the mountains, turning rainfall into abundant snow above 2,000m. Resorts in Savoie, Haute-Savoie and northern Italy are seeing their first major snow covering of the season, a promising sign that the 2025 ski season could be shaping up beautifully.

Mountain Roads Close as Snow Piles Up

The snowfall has been so heavy that several major Alpine passes have already been closed for safety. The Col de Galibier (and its tunnel) are currently shut until at least Wednesday, October 22, while the legendary Col de l’Iseran – Europe’s highest mountain pass – has also been closed for the season.

The Col du Glandon will close from 16:00 today (October 21), marking the start of the region’s winter shutdown period. These seasonal closures are completely normal and usually last until May or June – and for skiers, they’re a sure sign that the ski season is just around the corner!

From November 1, drivers in Savoie are reminded that winter tyres are mandatory, reinforcing that winter in the Alps has officially arrived.

More Snow on the Way?

The good news doesn’t stop there! Forecasters are predicting further snowfalls across the Alps this week as more moisture-laden systems move in. Rain at lower altitudes is expected to turn to snow above 1,500m, and by early November, even villages around 1,000m could see their first dusting of white.

While early-season snow often doesn’t settle for long, it’s a crucial signal that cold temperatures and consistent snowfalls are setting in right on schedule. Meteorologists say this is a great sign for Alpine ski resorts, many of which are preparing to open their slopes in the coming weeks.

Although some forecasts suggest a brief dry spell in mid-November, the overall outlook remains positive. If the snow continues to fall as expected, ski resorts across France, Italy, and Switzerland could be in for an excellent start to the season. Perfect timing for those planning a Christmas ski holiday in the Alps.

Time to Book Your Ski Holiday!

The early snow is a clear invitation to get those skis waxed and ready! Whether you’re eyeing Les Arcs, Val Thorens, or La Plagne, the first snow of the season is a strong hint that winter 2025 is on track for a snowy start.

Stay tuned to Skiline.co.uk for the latest snow reports, ski resort opening dates, and the best ski holiday deals for the 2025 season. With conditions already turning wintry, now’s the perfect time to book your ski trip to the Alps and be among the first to carve fresh tracks on the new snow!