Ski slopes in Europe have been forced to close due to unseasonably high temperatures and a lack of snow. Over the New Year Switzerland experienced temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius. This has caused resorts to open hiking trails or close altogether, as the Alps have been replaced with grass and mud instead of the usual snow. The warm winter weather is attributed to a combination of mild south-westerly winds and the Foehn effect, resulting in temperatures similar to those in June on the north side of the Alps. As a result, many ski resorts are now using artificial snow and offering alternative activities, such as horse-drawn carriage rides or bouncy castles, to attract visitors. The lack of snowfall and increasing temperatures in recent years have led to a dire situation for ski resorts, with a grim outlook for both the current season and the future.