Czechia sees record October snowfall since 2000s: Is a white winter ahead?

Czechia’s main mountain ranges were blanketed in the heaviest October snowfall in 16 years, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) reported on X today. Tens of centimeters fell in the Šumava, Krkonoše, and Jeseníky Mountains over the past 12 hours, with snow briefly reaching lower slopes in some areas.

The thickest accumulation was recorded on Velký Javor in Šumava at 48 centimeters. Labská bouda saw 42 centimeters, Plechý 35 centimeters, and Praděd in the Jeseníky Mountains 22 centimeters. While significant, the snow is expected to melt by the second half of the week as temperatures rise.

"A minimum of 20 cm lies somewhere in the mountains in October on average once every three years. However, it is difficult to find snow in the Šumava, Krkonoše, and Jeseníky Mountains at the same time in the archives. The last time this happened was in 2009," the Czech Meteorological Institute announced.

Records show that October 2009 brought even heavier snow than this year in several locations. Lysá hora in the Beskydy Mountains recorded 103 centimeters back then—the October record—while Luční bouda measured 87 centimeters. 

Looking ahead, winter 2025–2026 is expected to be snowier than usual. Long-range forecasts point to colder and snowier conditions across much of Europe, influenced by La Niña, a Pacific cooling event that shifts global weather patterns.

As for the Czech capital, a long-term, monthly weather forecast from reputable meteorological service AccuWeather predicts the first signs of snow in the capital on Nov. 18. The week of Nov. 24 will see some more sustained snowfall.

Snow is then expected throughout December. Notably, at the time of writing, snow is expected on Christmas Day, with heavy snow also forecast for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

In December alone, the Czech Republic is anticipated to see around 10 snowy days, above the typical seven, the ČHMÚ says.

Meteorologists caution that early snowfall is not a guarantee of seasonal totals, but the combination of heavy October snow and a La Niña-influenced winter increases the likelihood of persistent snow cover, especially in mountainous regions. Authorities advise drivers and hikers to remain alert to rapidly changing conditions. And if you ski or snowboard, enjoy.