Springlike warmth replaces snow and avalanches in the Alps this weekend
A shift in weather is on the way, bringing warmer temperatures and springlike conditions just in time for the weekend. The change follows a week of heavy snow and high avalanche risks across the Alps, which caused disruptions in Switzerland's Valais region.
From February 16 to 20, 2026, massive snowfall and strong westerly winds destabilised the Alpine snowpack. Wind-slab formation pushed avalanche danger to level 4 ("high") in many areas, with some regions—especially Switzerland's Valais canton—reaching level 5 ("very high"). Spontaneous avalanches led to evacuations and road closures.
On Saturday morning, lingering showers will affect the Alps, turning to snow above 1,000 to 1,400 metres. Winds will stay strong, but milder air will lift the freezing level to around 2,700 metres (8,850 feet). By the afternoon, springlike warmth will arrive from the west, with temperatures climbing to 13°C (55°F) and gusty conditions.
Sunday will bring sunshine and even warmer weather, reaching about 15°C (59°F) in lowland areas. In Alpine valleys, föhn winds could push temperatures beyond 20°C (68°F), while the freezing level rises to near 3,000 metres (9,850 feet). Ski conditions will improve, though the avalanche risk remains considerable to high.
At the start of the new week, the far north and east may see a few showers under thicker cloud cover. Despite this, mild temperatures will hold. By Tuesday and Wednesday, sunny spring weather returns, with highs of up to 18°C (64°F). The settled conditions are expected to last at least through Thursday.
The weekend will offer ideal slope conditions, though avalanche risks persist in the Alps. Warmer, springlike temperatures are set to continue into the middle of the week, bringing a break from the recent severe winter conditions.
