Cold snap takes hold across Alps
Russian cold front closes in this weekend

A severe cold weather front from Russia is closing in and will see temperatures plummet across the whole of the Alps.

Thermometers will struggle to record low temperatures of -39°C expected at the summits.

The mass of cold air from Russia has already hit large parts of Europe but the Alps are yet to feel the temperature difference. However, most ski resorts will start to see the temperature drop today and forecasters are predicting Friday and Sunday to be the coldest days with temperatures dropping to -37°C  in Tignes and -37°C in Val Thorens.

Resorts across the Alps are well equipped for such cold temperatures but holiday-makers are urged to take precautions when outside.

Extra layers need to be worn, whilst base-layers should wick away perspiration to keep the body dry. Cover your head - most body-heat is lost via your head - and consider using a face-mask to protect your lungs from the cold.

Consider parking in a covered car park as batteries loose power on cold starts and ensure the tank is full of 'local' diesel as non-treated diesel can start 'waxing' at such low temperatures.

Monday should see temperatures climb back to normal lows across all the ski resorts in the Alps.

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