The second week of January is shaping up to be a fascinating one for European powder chasers. While the central Alps are seeing decent maintenance snow, the real action for the week of January 12 to January 19, 2026, is shifting to the fringes. We analyzed data from 15 resorts across the continent, and the results are surprising: Turkey and Norway are dominating the forecast.
If you are willing to travel off the beaten path, you are going to be rewarded with deep, uncrowded lines. Here is your guide to the best conditions in Europe this week.
The Heavy Hitters: Where to Go Deep
1. Turkey's Powder Surprise: Kurucadag – Bingöl
Topping our charts this week is Kurucadag – Bingöl. This hidden gem is forecasting a massive 63.3cm of fresh snow over the next 7 days, earning a Powder Score of 73/100.
Located in Eastern Turkey, this isn't your typical luxury resort experience, but for pure snow volume, it is unbeatable right now. The storm cycle is hitting hard mid-week, so if you can get there by Wednesday, you'll be snorkeling.
2. The Scandinavian Storm: Eikerapen, Norway
Norway is looking incredibly strong this week. Eikerapen is expecting 59.8cm of fresh powder. With a Powder Score of 68/100, conditions are rated as excellent.
Southern Norway is in the direct path of a North Sea low-pressure system. The terrain here is playful, and with nearly 60cm of freshies, the tree runs will be the place to be to maintain visibility during the storm days. Nearby Ljosland Skisenter is also getting hammered with 58.8cm, making this region a powder hunter's paradise right now.
3. High Altitude Adventure: Mount Nemrut, Turkey
Back in Turkey, Mount Nemrut is offering a unique experience: skiing inside a dormant volcanic caldera. They are expecting 45.5cm of snow (Powder Score: 73/100).
The combination of high altitude and significant snowfall means the snow quality here should be dry and light. It is a bucket-list destination that is currently firing on all cylinders.
4. The Swiss Alpine Fix: Pian Cales – San Bernardino
For those sticking to the Alps, Pian Cales – San Bernardino in Switzerland is the standout performer. While many major Alpine resorts are seeing lulls, San Bernardino is catching a localized system delivering 46.2cm (Powder Score: 70/100).
This is a great option for skiers who want excellent powder conditions without the travel logistics of Eastern Turkey or Scandinavia. The terrain offers great variety, and the freezing levels are looking favorable for top-to-bottom quality.
Gear Essentials: Packing for the Storm
With heavy snowfall often comes low visibility and colder temperatures, especially in Norway and high-altitude Turkey. Here is what we recommend packing to keep you riding first chair to last call.
The Hard Goods
If you are heading to Kurucadag or Eikerapen, leave the carvers at home. You need float.
- Skis: Look for something 105mm+ underfoot. The Salomon QST 106 Skis are a versatile choice that handles deep snow beautifully but can still rail a turn.
- Backpack: Safety first. If you are venturing out of bounds, a localized airbag is smart. Check out the BCA Float E2 Avalanche Airbag.
The Soft Goods
- Outerwear: It is going to be dumping. You need a bombproof shell. The Arc'teryx Sabre Jacket is the gold standard for storm skiing.
- Mid-Layer: For the cold Norwegian days, layering is key. The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket packs down small but brings the heat.
Essential Accessories
- Vision: Flat light is the enemy. Grab a pair of Oakley Flight Deck Goggles with Prizm lenses to pop the contrast.
- Warmth: Don't let cold fingers ruin the day. Pack some HotHands Hand Warmers in your pockets.
- Base Layers: A quality merino base is non-negotiable. We love the Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer for moisture management and warmth.
The Full Forecast Breakdown
Here is the data on the top 10 resorts we analyzed for this week. Keep an eye on the "Conditions" column—anything marked "Excellent" is a go.
- Kurucadag – Bingöl (Turkey): 63.3cm | Score: 73/100
- Eikerapen (Norway): 59.8cm | Score: 68/100
- Ljosland Skisenter (Norway): 58.8cm | Score: 67/100
- Pian Cales – San Bernardino (Switzerland): 46.2cm | Score: 70/100
- Mount Nemrut (Turkey): 45.5cm | Score: 73/100
- Bernina Heliski (Switzerland): 38.6cm | Score: 66/100
- Kurort Arkhyz (Russian Federation): 34cm | Score: 69/100
- Vikersundbakken (Norway): 29.9cm | Score: 71/100
- Hakkari Mergabütan (Turkey): 26cm | Score: 70/100
- Tetnuldi – Mestia (Georgia): 22.6cm | Score: 69/100
Expert Tips for the Week
- Watch the Wind: With storms this size, wind hold is a real risk, particularly in exposed areas like Tetnuldi – Mestia or the high peaks of Switzerland. Check the morning lift status before heading out.
- Go Heliskiing: If you have the budget, Bernina Heliski is reporting 38.6cm. This is the perfect depth for heli-drops—deep enough to feel heroic, but stable enough to access steeper terrain.
- Explore the East: It is rare to see Turkey and Georgia (Kurort Arkhyz is nearby in Russia) dominating the charts like this. If you've ever wanted to do a cultural ski trip, this is the week to pull the trigger.
The snow gods are generous this week, provided you know where to look. Whether you are booking a flight to Turkey or road-tripping through Norway, the powder is waiting.
Want to see how your local hill stacks up? Check out our full rankings and deep-dive reviews for over 1,000 resorts at ShredIndex.
