Sierra Nevada Snow Conditions Overview
Sierra Nevada in Andalusia, Spain sits at 3,300m (10,827ft) elevation and averages 197cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Sierra Nevada receives approximately 180cm of snow. The best month for powder is March, averaging 73.8cm of snowfall with a 41% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in March at 41%.
- Annual Snowfall
- 197cm
- Elevation
- 3,300m
- Best Month
- March
- Powder Probability
- 41%
Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).
Check Sierra Nevada snow forecast for your dates
Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data
About Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada snowfall statistics based on 10 years of historical data. See average annual snowfall, best months to ski, and powder probability to help you plan your trip.
Snow & Weather Conditions
We use 10 years of historical data to help you plan — not a live snow report.
Spain's ski resorts benefit from Pyrenean and Sierra Nevada storm systems. Sierra Nevada is Europe's most southerly major resort, with surprisingly reliable snowfall at high altitude. The high elevation ensures a cold, consistent climate that favours natural snow preservation. Storms frequently deliver generous totals, and the altitude keeps the snowpack dense and skiable throughout the core winter months. Season-long totals generally land between 6 and 10 metres, translating to a robust mid-winter base well above 2 metres.
Best Time to Ski
The best time to ski at Sierra Nevada is March, with 73.8cm average snowfall and 41% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. Season runs from late November to early April. January and February are the coldest, snowiest months. Explore PowderDays' 10-year snowfall archive to compare trends and plan your ideal visit dates.
Powder Probability by Month
Chance of 15cm+ fresh snow in any given week (10 years of data):
- Nov10%
- Dec8%
- Jan15%
- Feb7%
- Mar41%
- Apr16%
10-Year Snow History
| Month | Avg Snowfall (cm) | Record High | Record Low | Powder Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov | 15.1 | 47.2 | 0.0 | 10% |
| Dec | 17.8 | 39.6 | 5.5 | 8% |
| Jan | 25.6 | 42.5 | 1.7 | 15% |
| Feb | 21.5 | 47.9 | 0.0 | 7% |
| Mar | 73.8 | 225.8 | 3.3 | 41% |
| Apr | 26.5 | 69.4 | 0.0 | 16% |
What Makes It Special
Modern lift systems, well-groomed slopes, and improving off-piste terrain. The Pyrenean resorts offer vast, interconnected ski areas. Spanish mountain culture combines vibrant nightlife, tapas, and warm hospitality with excellent value compared to Alpine neighbours.
Sierra Nevada in Andalusia is the most southerly ski resort in Europe, with a summit at 3,300 metres. Baqueira-Beret in the Val d'Aran is the largest ski area in the Spanish Pyrenees, with over 160km of pistes and an average annual snowfall exceeding 5 metres.
Data Sources & Methodology
All snowfall statistics for Sierra Nevada are based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025) from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, which provides ERA5 reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Daily snowfall totals are queried at Sierra Nevada's coordinates (37.10, -3.40) and 3,300m elevation, then aggregated into monthly averages, record highs/lows, and powder probability scores. Powder probability represents the chance of receiving 15cm or more of fresh snow in any given week during that month.