The time to take a break from skiing is almost here.
photo: SME - Ján Krošlák
THE SITUATION on the weather front is changing rapidly, as anyone who lives near a river can tell you. The snow is melting fast and the temperature is rising. Despite the significant rise in temperature last week, however, it still looks like many centres will be open for Easter skiing. An inflow of cold air from the northwest will help matters, and confirm April's reputation as a "crazy" month for weather.
The week ahead promises unstable weather with showers and snow in the mountains at altitudes above 1,000 metres. Snow should fall more generally in the second part of the week, and temperature will drop to -2 degrees Celsius during the day. Strong winds will add to the pleasantries.
The long-term forecast says that after a cold first week in April, the cold will deepen, rather than lift.
Ski centres have dropped the prices of daily tickets. However, during the Easter weekend expect the same prices as during the winter season. The number of attractions is shrinking, however, but there should be a last blast at Easter.
Skiing is still better now than in midwinter with the slopes half-empty and the weather tolerably good.
Ski resort - snow depth - price of daily ski pass
Štrbské Pleso
150 cm
Sk460
Skipark Ružomberok
60 cm
Sk520
Veľká Rača
100 cm
Sk552 - 621
Vrátna dolina
40-180 cm
Sk460
Jasná - Chopok
100-200 cm
Sk690
Plejsy
60 cm
Sk350
Park Snow Donovaly
50 cm
Sk450
Zverovka - Spálená
80 cm
Sk580
Chopok - Juh
100 - 250 cm
Sk500
Lomnické Sedlo
200 cm
Sk199
Note: Because it will be raining at altitudes below 1,000 metres, check ski forecasts before heading for the slopes. Many centres are open only during weekends, or have limited operations.
