Die Schweiz trocknet aus, doch die Speicherseen der Skigebiete sind randvoll

Switzerland is drying up, yet ski resorts' reservoirs for artificial snowmaking are nearly full. The extreme summer that ended was marked by unrelenting heat and drought, causing water bodies to suffer. Fish are dying and ships are unable to navigate through them. Water levels in lakes, rivers and groundwater have reached historic lows this summer, but rain has returned, providing some relief.

However, most artificial snowmaking reservoirs, crucial for ski areas, are nearly at capacity. A survey of almost a dozen major Swiss ski resorts shows this, including the St. Moritz Engadin resort with its Lej Alv and Lej Nair Pitschen reservoirs full, and the Adelboden Lenk ski area in the Bernese Oberland with its two reservoirs.

Martin Hug, CEO of Zermatt Bergbahnen, confirms that the water levels in the reservoirs are currently sufficient. This seasonal resource is crucial as it enables ski resorts to remain economically viable. Presently, there are no concerns about limitations in snowmaking capabilities for the upcoming winter season. Artificial snow has become an essential part of the ski industry's existence.

According to the Ski Lifts Association of Switzerland, about one percent of the total Swiss water consumption is dedicated to artificial snowmaking. However, having liquid gold available when needed is paramount, and this is just before the start of the ski season in November and December when large quantities are required to lay the white foundation for the winter season.

But having enough water is only part of the equation; cold temperatures are equally important, as high temperatures render full reservoirs ineffective. The hope for the winter operation rests on the significantly different ski resort ticket prices across various destinations. Early booking is crucial, but there are other ways to save money.

Switzerland has experienced another hot week, leaving residents in sweltering conditions, whether on construction sites, farms, in offices or mountain villages.