BBC Weather | Winter Sports

Winter Sports

Conditions in Europe have not changed much this week. The glorious sunny weather has continued and milder weather has moved in, creating some spring-like conditions. This is not as extreme as we have seen earlier in the season and the accumulated snow depths are, on the whole, holding up very well.

The best conditions are once again in Austria where the slopes are holding up well. There are many glacier skiing resorts here so there are more options when the weather is a bit milder. Italy is faring well too. Many of the resorts have a very good snow base which allows them to cope very well.

France is relying heavily on snowmaking and grooming to keep the pistes in good shape. This is producing some great skiing though so it is really paying off whilst the resorts wait for snow with bated breath.

It is a similar story in Switzerland but the lower slopes are suffering a little and are in desperate need of fresh snow. To get the most out of your skiing, head to resorts that are located slightly higher where there is better snow cover.

Soldeu currently offers great piste riding conditions. The Ski Club Leader in Soldeu has reported excellent skiing this week.

The half term break is coming up which is a notoriously busy time on the slopes. If you are worried about snow conditions then you will be pleased to know that there is some fresh snow forecast across Europe next week. It is not going to dump, but enough should fall to allow the slopes to recover. Perhaps most importantly, it is going to get a little colder, especially at night which will allow the snow cannons to work their magic.

The east coast of America received yet more snow in what is a superb season for them. Colorado has great riding conditions too.

A shift in the weather patterns in Canada means a big storm is headed for Whistler. This could bring significant snow to resorts further inland as well.