After near-endless weeks of cold temperatures, wind, rain and storms, many would think that the weather in Switzerland is stuck in limbo between winter, spring and summer. Now, the alpine nation is set to be treated to its first helping of summer this week, with the mercury rising to up to 24 degrees celsius.
It’s safe to say that springtime in Switzerland in 2023 has been one word: damp. For the last few weeks, the weather has been characterised by brief spurts of warm temperatures, followed by rain, wind, and if you are up a mountain or at a ski resort, strangely heavy snowfall.
In what is likely welcome relief for the chilly inhabitants of Switzerland, MeteoSwiss has confirmed that the first day of summer is finally on its way. After a cool and wet Labour Day, the weather has already started to improve, with temperatures initially rising to 17 degrees in the north and 21 degrees in the south on May 2.
Now, the first helping of summer-like temperatures is expected to arrive on Wednesday and Thursday, with the skies clearing to create a bright, clear and sunny day across Swiss cities and cantons. Meteorologists told 20 Minuten that warm air from the southwest is set to make May 4 the first "summer day" of the year, with the best conditions expected in Basel, Geneva, Chur and Sitten.
Temperatures are expected to vary between 20 and 24 degrees celsius, with the weather remaining warm for the vast majority of the weekend. While it likely won’t be hot enough for the first tentative dip in a Swiss lake or river, the coming few days will be an ideal time for an excursion or event outside.
However, do bear in mind that the best of the conditions will be from Thursday to Saturday night, after which scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected across the country - in some areas they may arrive earlier on Saturday. Temperatures are forecast to normalise at around 20 degrees celsius next week.