Snow level in Sierra Nevada

Climate, snowfall and avalanches in Sierra Nevada

Sierra Nevada is the highest Baetic massif and, along with the Pyrenees, the only one preserving snow almost year-round on Mulhacen (3479 m), Veleta (3398 m) and Alcazaba (3371 m). The useful snow season runs December to May, peaking in February. The snow level is high due to latitude (1800-2400 m), but deep Atlantic storms can lower it to 1200 m, exceptionally to 800 m (recent record: March 2018, 700 m in the Alpujarra). Snow depths at Pradollano (2100 m) exceed 4 m in March in heavy years; the average approaches 1.5 m. Avalanche risk is significant in March and April after windy snowfall, especially in north and northeast facing gullies (Veredon, San Juan). The Pradollano ski resort typically operates December to late April or early May, being the southernmost in continental Europe and often the last to close each season. The snowpack stores water feeding the Genil river, supplying the Granada vega and extending streamflow to July. Climate change has caused the retreat of the perennial snowfields of the Corral del Veleta, considered remains of the peninsula last glacier. The National Park preserves endemic species such as the Sierra Nevada violet that depend on the snow cover.