Heavy snow fell on Thursday, isolating the famous Swiss ski resort of Zermatt, where tourists and residents are advised to remain indoors. Tignes Mayor Serge Revial communicated the risks of avalanches due to over a meter of snow accumulation in the area, stating, "we had to make a decision to protect people."
In Savoie, eastern France, many households experienced power outages as snow caused traffic chaos across the region. Affected areas in Switzerland included critical transport links, with the Simplon Pass to Italy and the Great St Bernard Tunnel closed. Tourists planning to ski faced travel disruptions in the Valais and Bernese Oberland regions, where roads and rail routes to Zermatt were blocked. The Alertswiss app cautioned of avalanche risks and falling trees while schools in Sion closed as a precaution.
Local authorities recommended postponing trips to hard-hit areas until Saturday. Moreover, reports of power outages affected 37 municipalities in Aosta Valley, Italy, where a bridge collapse in Biella and flooding incidents claimed lives, including that of a 92-year-old man swept away by rising waters.
Meteorologists noted extreme weather conditions, with some valleys experiencing over 20 cm of rain in just 36 hours, leading to river floods and public safety alerts. Residents nearby recounted the relentless rainfall, stating that while the rain has receded, the risk of flooding remains concerning, especially along the overflowing Po River.
While Alpine resorts encounter severe challenges, caution is advised for travelers as recovery efforts begin in these scenic yet hazardous locations.
In Savoie, eastern France, many households experienced power outages as snow caused traffic chaos across the region. Affected areas in Switzerland included critical transport links, with the Simplon Pass to Italy and the Great St Bernard Tunnel closed. Tourists planning to ski faced travel disruptions in the Valais and Bernese Oberland regions, where roads and rail routes to Zermatt were blocked. The Alertswiss app cautioned of avalanche risks and falling trees while schools in Sion closed as a precaution.
Local authorities recommended postponing trips to hard-hit areas until Saturday. Moreover, reports of power outages affected 37 municipalities in Aosta Valley, Italy, where a bridge collapse in Biella and flooding incidents claimed lives, including that of a 92-year-old man swept away by rising waters.
Meteorologists noted extreme weather conditions, with some valleys experiencing over 20 cm of rain in just 36 hours, leading to river floods and public safety alerts. Residents nearby recounted the relentless rainfall, stating that while the rain has receded, the risk of flooding remains concerning, especially along the overflowing Po River.
While Alpine resorts encounter severe challenges, caution is advised for travelers as recovery efforts begin in these scenic yet hazardous locations.
