transportation
Easter Travel Chaos: Major Routes Disrupted by Heavy Snowfall
Critical transport links near Italian border severely affected as heavy snow forces closure of Simplon Pass and disrupts rail services to Milan
Major Transport Routes Paralyzed
Heavy snowfall has brought major transport routes in Switzerland to a standstill, particularly affecting the crucial links near the Italian border. The Simplon Pass road has been completely closed in both directions, while the Grand St-Bernard pass was shut down as a precautionary measure. The severe weather conditions have created unprecedented challenges for Easter holiday travelers, with authorities scrambling to manage the situation.
Communities Cut Off and Power Outages
The severe weather has left several communities isolated, with Simplon Dorf and Gondo completely cut off from the rest of Valais canton. These villages are currently only accessible through Italy. Adding to the crisis, numerous communities are experiencing power outages due to damage to the high-voltage network, particularly affecting the Saas Valley and Mattertal regions. The situation is further complicated by potential mobile network outages, hampering communication efforts.
Rail Services Affected
The storm has severely impacted rail services, with the critical line between Visp and Zermatt completely interrupted. While replacement buses are operating between Visp and Täsch, connections to Zermatt remain suspended. The international rail network has also been affected, with services between Domodossola and Milan disrupted due to flooded tracks, impacting the important Eurocity rail link between Valais and Milan.
Easter Travel Advisory
Authorities are strongly advising travelers to postpone their Easter journeys until conditions improve. A significant 7-kilometer traffic jam has formed at the Gotthard Tunnel's north portal, with waiting times reaching up to two hours. The Valais cantonal police have issued urgent warnings about avalanche risks at all altitudes and the danger of falling trees, emphasizing the need for extreme caution.
Alternative Routes and Outlook
The Touring Club Switzerland (TCS) recommends using the A13 and San Bernardino Tunnel as alternative routes for travelers heading south. Weather forecasts indicate improving conditions for the weekend, with partly sunny skies and higher temperatures expected. However, authorities maintain that several road sections will remain closed for hours or even days as repair work continues.