Malpensa airport

Milan Airports Closed Due Snowfall

Heavy snowfalls that have been raging over Italian mountain areas for the previous ten days moved further into the country. During the past night Milan was covered with fresh snow which caused some troubles. Thus, Wednesday morning Linate airport (LIN) was temporarily closed for clearing runways. In total 13 flights were cancelled. Other Milan airport – Malpensa – also experienced some delays.

But for Italian ski areas heavy snowfalls are rather beneficial. During these ten days of snowing the Dolomites, situated in the Eastern side of the country, got in total about 170 cm of fresh powder. But snow brought as usual not only fun, but also troubles. Local authorities of the regions located in the Italian Alps broadcasted avalanche warnings. Alas, for the past two days 3 skiers perished there. So everybody is recommended not to leave pistes until snow cover gets more stable.

Five Italian ski areas in total have launched new season. On November 7 Passo Tonale ski area received about 180 cm of snow and joined already opened Cervinia and Bormio, the latter opened a month earlier than scheduled. And some more ski areas that already almost formed their pre-season snow bases are planning to follow above mentioned ski resorts. Among them are Madesimo and Monterosa region ski areas.

Photo: by Antonella R. (flickr.com)

Date: 10/12/2008