TL;DR
Switzerland's Simplon region experiences record-breaking snowfall, with 89 inches falling in just two days at Bortelsee station, setting new national records for short-term snow accumulation.
Swiss Alps Receive Record-Breaking Snowfall
Switzerland's Simplon region has experienced an extraordinary weather event, with the Bortelsee station recording a staggering 89 inches (226 centimetres) of snow in just 48 hours. This occurrence, which took place from April 15 to 17, 2025, has set new national records for short-term snow accumulation in Switzerland.
The previous Swiss records for snowfall have been surpassed by this recent event. The Bortelsee station measured 97 inches (247 centimetres) over a three-day period, exceeding the former two-day record of 85 inches at Bernina Pass in April 1999 and the three-day record of 90 inches at Weissfluhjoch in February 1990.
The cause of this intense snowfall was a low-pressure system dubbed 'Hans' by Italian weather services. Originating in the Gulf of Genoa, this system pushed warm, moist air from the Mediterranean towards the southern Alps. As this air mass encountered the mountains, it was forced upwards, resulting in heavy orographic precipitation, particularly in the Simplon area.
