Grönland

At the beginning of the year, it's not just world events that are coming thick and fast, but also the weather. Winter has finally descended on Europe, is currently spreading deep into the Balkans and the next trough promises to bring large amounts of fresh snow to the northern slopes of the Alps as early as today. High pressure is prevailing over Greenland, however, and temperatures are very high. We therefore turn our attention last to the special role that Greenland and its ice sheet play in the global climate.

Salomon TV (formerly Freeski TV) heads to Greenland in the latest edition. In addition to the film crew and the team riders, glaciologist Alun Hubbard is also on board. The pros have a guilty conscience because they pollute the environment with their many flights to exotic destinations and hope that their conscience can be soothed by helping a scientist with his work. Meaningful research? Or is it more of a show? And what was the snow like? We asked Professor Hubbard and Salomon Pro Chris Rubens a few questions about the movie.

After a few dry, clear days, a change in the weather is on the horizon and fans of thunder and lightning are looking forward to the start of the thunderstorm season. The medium-term outlook is uncertain, but at least there is no threat of midsummer yet. Also: The Alpine Association presents its glacier report for the 2014/15 season.

A powerful hurricane depression called Eckard has formed over Iceland. Between Eckard and a high pressure system over Scandinavia, the strong pressure difference is shoveling masses of warm subtropical air towards us and much further north. The North Pole reaches temperatures of almost 50° above average (equivalent to just above zero).

Once again this year, one of the most successful ski film events will be released in cinemas on November 2, 2013: Warren Miller presents his 64th film with TICKET TO RIDE. This year there will be a total of 53 tour stops, including five in Austria and five in Switzerland.