Some Alpine Passes Sill Under Snow with Avalanche Threat

22nd May 2024

The Gotthard pass that links northern and southern Switzerland remains closed as snow clearing continues.

This time last year it was already open, and it is often cleared by mid-May.

Not this year following the heavy late season snow.

Currently the fastest road route is the Gotthard tunnel or over the San Bernardino Pass.

It is expected the Gotthard Pass will be open by the end of the month.

Last week it was announced that Stage 16 of the Giro d’Italia cycle race needed to be altered with the Stelvio Passed axed due to the risk of avalanches on the 2,758m Alpine pass.

“The recent snowfalls on the Passo dello Stelvio and the subsequent rise in temperatures are increasing the risks of avalanches,” the organisers, RCS Sport, said in a statement.

“The Giro d’Italia organisation, to safeguard the security of the Carovana Rosa, has thus decided to modify the route of the stage.”

Passo Stelvio summer ski area is currently preparing to open on May 31st.

There are currently some of the best summer skiing conditions in recent years and hopes are high for the beginning of the summer season.