Unseasonal snowfall hits Alpes-Maritimes as cold drop sweeps south-east France
Snow fell across parts of the Alpes-Maritimes over the weekend despite the arrival of spring.
Winter made an unexpected return to southern France this weekend, as heavy snowfall blanketed parts of the Alpes-Maritimes on Sunday despite the official start of spring.
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A so-called “cold drop” weather system — a pocket of cold air moving through the atmosphere — brought significant snow to higher ground around Nice and across the region.
Snowfall of around 15–20cm was recorded in several areas.
Ski resorts including Gréolières and Isola 2000 were covered in a thick layer of snow, while flakes were also reported overnight in Caussols and at elevations above 900–1,000 metres.
According to forecasters at Météo-France, the cold snap is expected to be short-lived.
Warmer, sunnier conditions should return to Nice and the surrounding area from Monday.