BBC Weather | Winter Sports

Snowfall has returned to Europe this week creating some great conditions in time for half term, despite reports to the contrary. Italy and France have seen the best snowfall this week which came as a relief after a dry period.

Italy is where the best conditions can be found at the moment. The region has seen some big dumps of snow this week with over 50cm falling in some places. There are now some fantastic conditions to be found including some fresh off-piste skiing which was almost becoming a distant memory.

France has had a good week too. Many resorts have now received fresh snow after their dry spell, particularly in the south where the most snow has fallen. Whilst conditions are good up high, some of the lower slopes are suffering but thankfully more snowfall is on the way in time for half term.

Austria and Switzerland have also seen snowfall this week. Not as much has fallen here as in Italy and France and some regions have missed out completely. That said it is still possible to find some great conditions especially on the higher slopes.

California is the place to head for powder in America. Squaw Valley received the most, with 76cm falling on Wednesday 16th February.

181cm of snow has fallen on Whistler since 10th February, taking them over the season average and it's only February. The east coast is great too, following a snowy few days last weekend.

Andorra

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