Unexpected July Snowfall in French Alps

Summer Snow Blankets French Alps

In an unexpected turn of events, snow has fallen in the French Alps during July. The snowfall, which occurred overnight between July 7 and 8, covered mountain peaks at elevations of 2,300 metres and above in the Grand Est and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes regions. This unusual weather phenomenon has drawn attention from skiers, riders, and meteorologists alike.

According to La Chaîne Météo, temperatures in the affected areas dropped to levels typically seen in early October. The coldest day of the week was July 8, with temperatures 5 to 10 degrees Celsius below seasonal averages. Weather experts have reported varying amounts of snow accumulation at different altitudes. Around 2,700 metres, 2-5 centimetres of snow was recorded, while areas around 3,200 metres saw 10-20 centimetres. The Mont-Blanc massif experienced the heaviest snowfall, with up to 30 centimetres at its highest points.

Despite the unusual timing, meteorologists and local experts emphasise that summer snow at high altitudes is not unheard of in the Alps. Meteo-Alpes stated on social media that snowfall can occur every month of the year above 1,800 to 2,000 metres. This sentiment was echoed by regional media and the mountain tourism site Mon Séjour en Montagne, which pointed out that ski events have been held in mid-July in previous years.

While the snow has created picturesque scenes shared widely on social media and webcams, it's expected to be short-lived. Forecasts indicate that temperatures will begin to rise again, potentially leading to the third heatwave of the summer over the July 14 long weekend.

For ski resorts in the French Alps, this unusual weather event serves as a reminder of the region's diverse climate. While most ski areas are closed for the summer season, some high-altitude resorts can operate well into the warmer months. For instance, Val Thorens, Europe's highest ski resort, typically offers skiing until early May, with some years seeing slopes open into June. Tignes, another high-altitude resort, often provides summer glacier skiing, allowing skiers and riders to enjoy snow sports even as valleys below experience warm summer weather.