Record-breaking snowfall in Austria: Safety warning issued

Wednesday, 11 January 2012 11:04 AM

Late last year a snow-shortage threatened Europe - making Skiers worried that their winter breaks may have to be spent on dry slopes. However, recent snowfall in Austria suggests that the ‘shortage’ was a false alarm.

Skiers will be pleased to hear that a whopping 70cm of snow has been falling over the last 24 hours in Austria. The Arlberg region has been experiencing the heaviest snowfall, with snow depths on the Galzig now at 550cm.

Despite a late start, the snowfall in Austria appears to be making up for lost time - and the 585cm depth on the Valluga in Arlberg, actually breaks the ‘deepest snow in the world’ record on SkiInfo.co.uk.

Although adventure holiday makers are sure to be delighted by the ski-friendly snowfall, travellers are being urged to proceed with caution. Heavy snowfall over a short period vastly increases the risk of avalanche danger.

In order to stay safe and enjoy your holiday to the maximum, the Tirol Tourist Board has issued the following safety advice:

Get informed: weather forecasts, snow reports and avalanche bulletins are widely available on the internet and through the local tourist offices. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains so always be prepared. Always carry a piste map and know how to get help if needed.
Signage: take notice of what’s around you – make sure you know your location and take note of the difficulty level of the piste. Most importantly pay attention to signs, issuing warnings such as piste closed or to the flags notifying the avalanche danger level. Don’t ignore the signs – they are there for a reason!
Protection: wear the right equipment and clothing. Protecting your head is vital – so make sure you wear a helmet. If you choose to go off-piste, always go with a certified guide and don’t forget to carry a transceiver, probe and shovel. Having the correct safety equipment and more importantly, knowing how to use it, is fundamental.
Be responsible: check out the FIS (International Ski Federation) rules for ski and snowboard conduct – your Highway Code to the slopes! Always make sure the skier in front has priority and adapt the manner and speed of your skiing to your ability and the conditions on the mountain.

Winter sport travel insurance guide

All travel insurance is important, but winter sport travel insurance is particularly important, because you’ll be carrying more expensive equipment, undertaking dangerous physical activities and battling with the elements. There are a lot of things to consider when booking travel insurance for winter sports and here’s our list of the top things to look out for.

Best value ski resorts

With the current economic situation, many people are looking to cut down on winter sport travel costs and look for alternative ski resorts that provide better value for money. New research has revealed that Eastern European resorts provide the best value ski holidays this winter, so here’s a list of the top three.

Top five alternative winter sports and where best to do them

Winter sports don’t have to be all about skiing, snowboarding and ice skating, there are a whole range of snow bound activities to try out in frosty landscapes. Whether you’re after a thrilling escapade or something just to dip your toes into the ice, there’s a winter adventure to suit all. So don your scarf and your hat and get ready for our top five alternative winter sports.