Unseasonable Warmth Strips Swiss Slopes of Snow, Leaving Ski Resorts Empty
In an alarming demonstration of climate change’s impact, the Swiss ski resort Dent-de-Vaulion confronts an unprecedented winter crisis. January’s warmth, a concerning 2°C above the 1990-2020 average, has left the resort’s slopes barren during what should be the peak season.
According to the UN IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change), Switzerland is warming at nearly double the global average. This alarming trend is particularly evident in mountainous regions, which are known to trap heat more effectively.
The present conditions at Dent-de-Vaulion are troubling, with temperatures rising to 9°C, far exceeding the typical January average of -1°C. Forecasts suggest a continued rise, potentially reaching 11°C. Over the current weekend, temperatures at the summit (1,707m) are predicted to hover around 8 degrees Celsius with no signs of improvement for at least a week.
Rob McDonald, Director of Snow-Forecast.com, commented, “The persistent warmth at Dent-de-Vaulion this season is beyond unusual. It’s a stark reminder of the rapid changes our climate is undergoing. The consistent above-freezing temperatures, especially at the mountain’s peak, spell trouble for this season and the future of winter sports in the region.”
The economic ramifications are profound. Tourism, vital to the Jura mountain range, is now at risk. The Jura, celebrated for its 190-mile ridgeway and a host of activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing, may face a bleak future if these patterns persist. Mountain Wilderness, an NGO, reports that 65 mechanical ski lifts are now rusting away, unused due to the snow shortfall.
As Dent-de-Vaulion’s ski lifts stand abandoned, the broader implications of climate change on winter sports, tourism, and local economies cannot be overstated. This situation underscores the need for comprehensive adaptation and mitigation strategies to combat these emerging challenges. The once-thriving winter wonderland of Dent-de-Vaulion serves as a stark warning of what the future might hold if global warming continues unchecked.
A Call to Action: The POW Sendit Campaign
In light of these challenges, there’s a growing movement to combat climate change’s impact on winter sports and mountain tourism. Protect Our Winters UK’s “Send It For Climate” campaign is a rallying cry for urgent climate action. It empowers individuals to influence political party manifestos, advocating for policies that target net zero emissions, transition to renewables, and support the outdoor industry. Participants can voice their support for these crucial initiatives by sending a virtual postcard to political leaders. More information on participating and making a difference is available on their website.
This campaign underscores the need for collective action in the face of climate change, not just for preserving cherished winter sports traditions but for safeguarding our planet for future generations.
