South side of the Alps

The major region of the south side of the Alps includes the canton of Ticino and part of the canton of Graubünden to the south of the Splügen and Bernina passes. This page provides insights into today’s climate on the south side of the Alps as well as detailed information about possible changes in the future.

Current climate

The influence of the Mediterranean leads to temperatures that are several degrees higher at a certain altitude than in the rest of Switzerland. Summer days occur frequently during the warmer half year. Even hot days are typical in the lowlands during summer. Southern Switzerland is very rainy. 150 to 400 mm of precipitation can fall per day. In lowlands, snow is rare. The solar insolation is very high throughout the year.

Climate Change Scenarios CH2018 - South side of the Alps

The influence of the Mediterranean results in temperatures that are generally higher at a certain altitude than in the rest of Switzerland. Consequently, summer days are a frequent occurrence. Hot days are also typical in low-lying areas in summer. Precipitation levels are high in southern Switzerland. Around 150 mm to 400 mm of precipitation can fall in a day. Snow is a rare occurrence in low-lying areas. Sunshine levels are very high all year round.