Switzerland Braces for More Stormy Weather and Deep Freeze
Switzerland is bracing for another day of severe weather as forecasters predict gale-force winds in Western Switzerland for a second consecutive day. This follows the passage of storm Ruzica, which swept across northern Europe, leaving a trail of disruption. The storm is expected to bring more precipitation, high winds, and cooler temperatures to the country on Tuesday, with significant snowfall likely on the Swiss plateau. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and prepare for potential travel disruptions and power outages.
In the wake of the storm, Switzerland has plunged into a deep freeze, with temperatures dropping well below zero across many regions. La Brévine, in the canton of Neuchâtel, recorded a chilling minus 23 degrees Celsius, setting a new record low for the year. This sudden cold snap follows several days of rain in lower altitude areas, and the combination of freezing temperatures and strong winds is expected to create hazardous conditions, especially in higher elevations.
Meanwhile, the country is also grappling with an emerging drought, as spring has been significantly too dry across much of the region. The lack of precipitation has led to moderate to high forest fire risks in Graubünden and Ticino, and snow cover in the mountains is well below the long-term average. Reservoir levels are critically low, and lake levels and river discharge are also below average. With little significant precipitation expected in the next two weeks, the drought situation is likely to worsen, particularly in the south, where hot and dry conditions persist.
Despite the current chill, MeteoSwiss, the Swiss meteorological service, has downplayed speculation about a ‘winter of the century,’ expecting a milder season overall due to a weaker polar vortex. However, the immediate forecast remains challenging, with the Alps and southern regions set to receive substantial rainfall this week. As Switzerland navigates these contrasting weather extremes, authorities urge the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Shimanta Das 
