The picturesque landscapes of the Swiss and French Alps were transformed dramatically as heavy snowfall struck, causing significant disruption just as the Easter holiday began. Zermatt, a well-known ski destination in Switzerland, became isolated with locals and tourists urged to remain indoors. In Tignes, the mayor, Serge Revial, emphasized the importance of safety, stating, "we had to make a decision to protect people" due to a substantial snowfall of over a meter.
The impactful weather led to power outages across hundreds of households in the Savoie region of France, leaving many without electricity. The Simplon Pass to Italy and the Great St Bernard Tunnel in Switzerland also faced traffic closures, hindering access for travelers eager to hit the slopes. Areas such as Valais and Bernese Oberland were heavily affected, prompting warnings regarding avalanches and transport disruptions.
In Zermatt, the only operational supermarket saw long queues and local schools in Sion were closed as safety measures. The Alertswiss app cautioned residents of the dangers posed by potential avalanches and falling trees within Valais. For tourists planning to visit the area for Easter, local authorities recommended postponing trips until Saturday and advised staying indoors where possible.
In neighboring Italy's Aosta Valley, 37 municipalities reported power outages, and floodwaters caused a bridge collapse in Biella, affecting the region significantly. The heavy rainfall exacerbated conditions in north-west Italy, leading to the overflowing of rivers, including the Po River, which threatened various nearby towns. Authorities issued red alerts, forecasting peak river levels in the coming days and added that emergency measures were in place to address the critical situation.
Manuela, a resident from Turin, described the relentless rain, indicating the strain on local infrastructure, yet noted that the city itself remained secure despite the challenges. The dramatic weather has captivated millions while also posing significant risks to both human life and local economies reliant on winter tourism.
