Switzerland braces for freezing start to 2026 with widespread snow
Switzerland is set for a cold and snowy start to 2026, with light snow expected from today through next week. MeteoSwiss, the country’s national weather service, has issued forecasts showing wintry conditions across much of the nation. A mix of cloud cover, bitter temperatures and scattered snowfall will dominate the coming days.
The first snow of the year is due as early as Monday afternoon. Light flurries will spread between Lake Constance and Lake Geneva by Monday evening, continuing overnight. A low-pressure system over the Baltic Sea and a weak cold front from the north will keep conditions unsettled through Tuesday.
On Tuesday, the Alpine foothills and the Alps will see mostly cloudy skies with occasional light snow. Localised snowfall is also likely along the northern foothills of the Jura Mountains. By Monday, areas north of the Alps can expect clearer weather, with abundant sunshine and patches of light fog—but temperatures will remain bitterly cold. Highs on Sunday and Monday will struggle to climb above freezing, while overnight lows could drop to –10°C. In the south, Samedan will face extreme cold, with lows reaching –26°C. Toward the end of the week, a slight warming trend is forecast, though light snow will still be possible in places.
The wintry spell will bring persistent cold and scattered snow to Switzerland until at least the end of next week. Residents and travellers should prepare for icy conditions, particularly in higher elevations and southern regions. MeteoSwiss will continue monitoring the situation as the new year begins.
