Heavy Snow and Avalanche Risks Force Cancellation of Sled Dog Race in Switzerland
Winter has brought heavy snow and high avalanche risk to the Bernese Highlands. While roads and railways returned to normal by Wednesday afternoon, the extreme conditions forced organisers to cancel this weekend's international sled dog race in Gadmen.
The cancellation was announced on Wednesday after reports in Berner Tamedia newspapers and the J platform. Organisers cited heavy snowfall, drifting, and a heightened avalanche threat as the main reasons. Safety concerns for participants, volunteers, and spectators made it impossible to proceed.
Avalanches had already struck parts of the region, including a large slide in the Grindelwald Valley on Tuesday. The avalanche risk across the Bernese Highlands ranged from considerable to high, particularly in high-alpine areas. Some ski lifts and cable cars at higher elevations were temporarily closed, though most ski resorts stayed open.
The mountain village of Gadmen, located on the Bernese side of the Susten Pass, was set to host the event. Despite the cancellation, roads and railways were functioning normally by Wednesday afternoon.
The decision to cancel the sled dog race came after careful assessment of the weather and avalanche conditions. Organisers prioritised safety above all else, ensuring no unnecessary risks were taken. The event will not go ahead as planned this weekend.
