Grand January Snowfalls across the Alps
16/01/2009 10:32
on: Better Travel, Recreation Portal, Sport On
Global warming and the global downturn, these double apocalypse have passed by the European Alps, leastwise for this Christmas. But it could have been so wholly contrary. Before Christmas hamlets in the La Clusaz area were isolated when snow came down. Dual carriage way cols such as the all important Col du Chamonix were cut. At that place there was no mains or telephones, home owners were evacuated to make shift accommodation, it looked like a repeat of 1996.
Perhaps all news is good news. La Rosiere appeared every night on French news bulletins. Immediately power was fixed inquiries began to arrive, pulled in by the good snow.
Les Gets and neighbouring Blanc Chamonix have nearly 4.5 meters base on the upper areas at 2300 m altitude and 2.2 meters at the base of the runs. Presently the best in the Alps. Montgenevre reports there is five m at the top of the resort. Unluckily a snow drift has demolished a support of the drag lift that goes up to the domain. They will be out of action till the end of Mar.
Elsewhere in the French Alps reservations have increased 16% in Alpe d Huez, Hautacam and Alpe d Huez. Les Deux Alpes has 99.7% tenancy and sold a record number of ski passes last Wednesday. This is great news for main skiing companies.
