Morzine Snow Conditions
During winter, each day can be different, so it's a good idea to check the Morzine weather and snow report before you go up the mountain so that you know what to expect. With the level of detail and the fact that forecasts are updated almost by the minute, snow reports are becoming increasingly popular by both locals and tourists.
Morzine Snow Report
Current snow conditions
(updated Mar. 24th 2023)
The temperatures are going up and down. It is slightly snowing at the top but raining mostly down in Morzine.
The snow is melting at this time of the year.
Thanks to the snow canon, the slopes are still in good conditions, especially those on north faces and above 1800m. However, it can get slushy even before mid day.
Check our Instagram account for daily pictures and Morzine webcams.
Snow amount
on the widget below, you can read the amount of snow
When combined with the weather forecast, the Morzine snow report provides great insight into conditions up on the mountain. While the forecast provides information about the weather, the snow report gives information about what is happening on the ground. By combining the two, you accurately predict what the weather will be like up the mountain and prepare accordingly, such as wearing extra layers to stay warm, choosing what skis/snowboard to bring with you that day and even where to ski.
Snow in Morzine and the Portes du Soleil
Having high altitude doesn't guarantee snow that is completely reliable. Snow reliability is more geographical than altitude-related. For Portes du Soleil, this has a lot to do with the fact that it is located near Mont Blanc with hardly any strong winds, so snow accumulates naturally.
Located in the heart of the Portes du Soleil, Avoriaz averages 7.5m of snowfall each year. The resort is the snowiest in France, which can be attributed partly to its high elevation, but also to its almost complete exposure to snow storms moving in.
At 1000m, Morzine is a relatively low-altitude resort. It's good to have a treeline since it helps block wind, making it easier to keep the snow than other ski resorts with heavy winds, no treeline, and rock bases. In particularly snowy or windy conditions, it's best to stay on Morzine-Les Gets side and save Avoriaz and Switzerland for those calmer bluebird days.
Types of snow
There are a variety of different types of snow on the mountain, depending on how it's formed and what it's like to ski on. You might not be aware of this if you're new to the mountain. There is a world of difference between skiing and snowboarding depending on the weather. While some types of snow are easier to ski on than others, others require greater concentration just to stay on your feet.
An important part of a snow report is information concerning the kind and amount of snow that will be found on the mountain that day. The type of snow can vary from day to day, depending on the temperature and previous weather conditions. If there hasn't been any snow recently, the quality of the snow will be affected. Similarly, if it has snowed heavily, then conditions will be excellent, although those wishing to go off-piste will need the proper equipment. When conditions are warm, slush can form, but if it has been warm before, ice may form first thing in the morning before the temperatures rise. Any of these conditions can be prepared for by checking the snow report.
Avalanche report
Another service provided by the snow report is the avalanche report. Having an avalanche forecast is crucial for understanding the potential dangers you may face when venturing into the backcountry in the winter. You should use it when planning your day out, whether you plan to ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or go hiking in the snow, since it could save your life or the life of someone else in your group.
By reading the avalanche report you will find information regarding the current avalanche risk. This can range from 1 to 5. Since the mountain is never considered completely safe, there is no rating of 0. Through the use of coloured flags, this system makes it convenient to fully understand avalanche information on a specific day and what the risks are. A number of factors can affect avalanche risk. Among them are recent snowstorms that can load the slopes and take time to settle, recent winds that can blow snow into danger zones and destabilise the snow pack, as well as recent temperatures.
Benefits of the snow report
One thing that anyone visiting a snow prone area should know is how quickly storms can come. Reading a snow report can help you when a storm is coming. Whether it's snow or ice, a couple of inches or a blizzard, you'll see when the next storm is coming. In the opposite scenario, if it has been snowing the past few days, and you see that tomorrow will be a gorgeous day, you know to get on the first lifts and enjoy it fully. Most importantly, the avalanche report and understanding the different types of snow will help you have a safe and enjoyable time on the mountain.
Lift and Piste Openings
Some lifts and pistes may not be open depending on the conditions and the time of year. Particularly early and late in the season, this is true. Poor snow cover can, however, affect what is open at any time of the year. When there is not enough snow, pistes can be closed for safety reasons or simply because skiing is not possible. A sudden, very large snowfall can also cause closures. Wind is another factor that affects what is open. If the wind is too strong, the higher, more exposed lifts can close for safety reasons.