Ruqayyah Snyder
Austria is known for its diverse landscapes, including mountain ranges, hills, and plains, which result in varying weather conditions across the country. The country experiences a temperate climate, with colder winters and hotter summers in the lowland regions of the north and east, while the western part enjoys milder winters and warmer summers. The southeastern areas have longer, warmer summers, almost Mediterranean-like. The climatic conditions in Austria's mountainous regions fall under the Alpine climate, resulting in colder winters than lower altitudes. The altitude significantly impacts the temperature, with each additional 985 ft (300 m) resulting in an average temperature decrease of 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius). The winter snow cover in the valleys typically lasts from late December to March, while at higher altitudes of 5,905 ft (1,800 m) and above, snow can be expected from November through May and often becomes permanent above 8,202 ft (2,500 m).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Snowfall | There is snowfall in the mountainous regions of the Alps in Austria. The amount of snowfall varies across the country, with the lowland regions in the north and east having moderate precipitation throughout the year, and the western part of the country experiencing high precipitation. |
| Snow Cover | The winter snow cover in the valleys lasts from late December through March, and from November through May at about 5,905 ft or 1,800 m. |
| Snow Conditions | Snow conditions vary across Austria, with the northern and eastern Alps experiencing more snow than the southern Alps. The off-piste conditions in the Alps can be dangerous due to heavy snowfall. |
| Annual Snowfall Averages | The annual snowfall averages are calculated based on weather data collected during different periods, ranging from 1971 to 2010. The calculation includes days when the snow depth reached at least one centimetre (0.4 inches). |
What You'll Learn
Snowfall in Austrian ski resorts
Austria is located in the European heartland and has a temperate climate. The country experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. The lowland regions in the north and east have more continental-influenced conditions, while the western part of the country is subject to less extreme weather due to the influence of the temperate Atlantic climate. The diversity of topographical and climatic conditions in Austria results in a versatile flora and fauna.
The coldest month in Austria is usually January, and the winter snow cover lasts from late December through March in the valleys and from November through May at about 5,905 ft (1,800 m). The annual average snowfall in Austria is 203 cm, and the country offers over 600 ski resorts of all sizes.
Some of the most consistent good piste conditions have been reported at Kaprun, Zurs, Obergurgl, St Anton, Hintertux, Neustift, Lech, and Pitztal. These resorts offer a mix of glacial resorts and those most exposed to prevailing storm tracks. For off-piste powder, resorts such as Kuhtai, Kaprun, Galtur, St Anton, Lech, Zurs, Obertauern, and Ischgl have proven to be consistent over the seasons due to regular snowfalls, a favourable sun aspect, or for not getting tracked out quickly.
The Austrian snow forecast for December 2024 showed that many parts of the Alps received fresh snowfalls, with the northwestern Alps experiencing the heaviest snow. The southern Alps, including the Dolomites, received less snow but still offered plenty of good piste-skiing on a mix of natural and man-made snow.
On December 27, 2024, snow was forecast to fall in at least 51 ski resorts in Austria, including Maurach am Achensee, Mühlbach am Hochkönig, and Salzburger Sportwelt. The deepest reported snow was in Sölden, with depths of 171 cm on upper slopes.
Overall, Austria's diverse climate and abundance of ski resorts make it a popular destination for skiers, offering a range of conditions and experiences.
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Annual snowfall averages
Austria's annual average snowfall total is 203 cm. The annual snow measurements for most places are averages of weather data collected during 1981 to 2010, while the rest use 1971 to 2000 averages. The calculation of days only includes the days when snow depth reached at least one centimetre.
The coldest month in Austria is usually January. The winter snow cover lasts from late December through March in the valleys, from November through May at about 5,905 ft or 1,800 m, and becomes permanent above about 8,202 ft or 2,500 m. Temperatures begin to rise again in February. In March, temperatures may rise up to 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius).
Austria's landscapes include major and minor mountain ranges, hills, and plains. The lowland regions in the north and east have more continental-influenced conditions with colder winters and hotter summers with moderate precipitation throughout the year. The southeastern areas of Austria have longer and warmer, almost Mediterranean-like summers. The western part of the country is subject to less extreme weather conditions; winters are usually mild and summers are rather warm. The west is also characterized by high precipitation.
The geographic features in the more mountainous regions of the country have given rise to another climate zone, the Alpine climate, which causes winters to be colder than at lower altitudes. Temperatures depend largely on altitude, with averages 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius) lower for each additional 985 ft (300 m) of elevation. The country's highest mountain is the Grossglockner (3,797 m or 12,457 ft). Whatever the season, if you're at a high altitude, the weather can change quickly and dramatically.
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Snowfall in November
November is the last month of fall in Austria, and the weather is usually cold and damp, with winter just around the corner. The average high temperature is 48°F (9°C), but it can be colder at higher altitudes. While there isn't much rain, there is a chance of fog, and with little sunshine, temperatures can feel colder. The days are also shorter, leading up to the shortest days of the year in late December.
In the western part of the country, the influence of the temperate Atlantic climate is felt more strongly, resulting in milder winters. The southeastern areas of Austria have longer and warmer summers, almost Mediterranean-like. The lowland regions in the north and east experience colder winters due to more continental-influenced conditions.
The geographic features of the mountainous regions give rise to the Alpine climate, which causes colder winters than at lower altitudes. Temperatures depend largely on altitude, with averages 41°F (5°C) lower for each additional 985 ft (300 m) of elevation.
November is an off-season for travel to Austria, as it falls between the pleasant conditions of early fall and the snow-filled action of winter. However, it is a great time to visit popular destinations like Salzburg on a budget, as accommodation discounts are more readily available, and the usually bustling streets are quieter. It is also a good time to visit Christmas markets in Austrian towns and cities, which start setting up in mid-November. These markets offer traditional crafts, food, drink, activities, entertainment, and festive lights without the crowds typically seen in December.
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Snowfall in the Austrian Alps
Austria is located in the European heartland and has a temperate climate. The country's landscapes include major and minor mountain ranges, hills, and plains. The lowland regions in the north and east have more continental-influenced conditions with colder winters and hotter summers, while the western part of the country is influenced by the temperate Atlantic climate, resulting in milder winters and warm summers. The diversity of topographical and climatic conditions results in a versatile flora and fauna.
The geographic features in the more mountainous regions of the country have given rise to the Alpine climate, which causes winters to be colder than at lower altitudes. The coldest month in Austria is usually January, and the winter snow cover lasts from late December through March in the valleys and from November through May at about 5,905 ft or 1,800 m. The country's highest mountain is the Grossglockner, which stands at 12,457 ft (3,797 m).
The Austrian Alps experience significant snowfall, with an annual average snowfall total of 203 cm. The snowfall in the Alps is influenced by weather systems tracking in from the north and northwest, providing reliable snow cover at most higher-altitude resorts. The Arlberg region, including Lech and St. Anton, is known for its heavy snowfalls, and other popular ski resorts in the Austrian Alps include Kaprun, Zurs, Obergurgl, Neustift, Lech, Pitztal, and Ischgl.
The Austrian Alps offer a mix of glacial resorts and resorts exposed to prevailing storm tracks, ensuring consistent good piste conditions. Off-piste skiing is also popular in resorts like Kuhtai, Kaprun, Galtur, St. Anton, Lech, and Zurs, but it is important to observe avalanche warnings as Austria has its share of avalanche fatalities.
The snow conditions in the Austrian Alps vary throughout the year. In December, the Alps usually experience a mix of fine and mild weather, with occasional snowfalls. By January, the coldest month, snow conditions are much improved, and snow-making can continue apace. February marks a rise in temperatures, and by March, temperatures can rise up to 54°F (12°C). Summers in the Austrian Alps can be hot, with temperatures reaching 86°F (30°C) or more.
Overall, the Austrian Alps provide a diverse range of ski resorts and snow conditions, from glacial skiing to off-piste adventures, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders alike.
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Snowfall in different regions of Austria
Austria is located in the European heartland and has a temperate climate. The country's landscapes include major and minor mountain ranges, hills, and plains. Weather conditions vary only slightly across the country, with lowland regions in the north and east having more continental-influenced conditions and the western part of the country being subject to less extreme weather. The geographic features in the more mountainous regions of the country have given rise to the Alpine climate, which causes winters to be colder than at lower altitudes.
Western Austria
Western Austria, including regions such as Arlberg (Lech/St Anton), has experienced big snowfall in places, especially compared to the southern Alps. However, in some instances, snowfall has not been as heavy as expected.
Northern and Northeastern Parts of Austria
The northern and northeastern parts of Austria, including areas like the Gasteiner Valley, Innsbruck, and its Holiday Villages, Salzburg, and Upper Austria, have also seen significant snowfall. In December 2024, these regions experienced light snow showers and flurries that lingered for a while.
Southern Parts of Austria
The southern parts of Austria, such as Carinthia, tend to have less natural snow. However, artificial snow-making ensures that there is still plenty of good piste-skiing available in regions like the Dolomites.
Eastern Parts of Austria
Eastern Austrian regions, including Lower Austria and Vienna, also experience snowfall. For example, in December 2024, light snow showers were expected in eastern Austrian ski resorts like Obertauern.
Alpine Regions
The Alps, which stretch across Austria, often experience heavy snowfall. For example, on December 23, 2024, the northwestern Alps received huge snowfalls, while the southern Alps were drier.
Mountainous Regions
Austria's mountainous regions have a humid snow climate, with the warmest month between 50 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 22 degrees Celsius) and the coldest month below 26 degrees Fahrenheit (-3 degrees Celsius). These regions experience colder winters due to their higher altitudes.
In summary, while snowfall varies across Austria, most regions experience some level of snowfall, especially in the mountainous and Alpine areas.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it does snow in Austria. The country experiences a temperate climate with colder winters and hotter summers. The lowland regions in the north and east have colder winters with moderate precipitation throughout the year. The western part of the country is subject to less extreme weather conditions, with mild winters and warm summers. The coldest month in Austria is usually January, and snow cover in the valleys lasts from late December through March.
The amount of snowfall in Austria varies across the country. Western Austria, including the regions of Tyrol and Vorarlberg, tends to have higher snowfall. The Alpine regions, such as the Arlberg, Lech, and St. Anton, often experience significant snowfall. The southeastern areas of Austria, including Carinthia, have warmer summers and milder winters.
Snowfall in Austria typically occurs during the winter months, with the coldest month being January. However, snow can also occur in the summer months, especially in the mountainous regions of the Alps. The winter snow cover in the valleys usually lasts from late December through March, while at higher altitudes, it can last from November through May or even become permanent above certain elevations.
