BBC: Dozens of ski resorts across the Alps have begun running their lifts after unprecedented levels of snow this month.
Some parts have had the most snow in November since 1956.
Last winter was a bad season for the multi-million pound ski industry and there were real fears that some resorts might go out of business due to a lack of snow.
But the ski industry is now breathing a collective sigh of relief as bookings are picking up for the all-important Christmas period.
Many villages and towns in the Alps rely on skiing for up to 80% of their income.
Last December the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) warned that some resorts could become unviable due to climate change.
It said resorts under 1,500m (4921ft) should focus on other activities.
Huge snow storm
Last week, though, a massive storm dumped over 1m (3ft 3in) on parts of the Eastern Alps and then it spread west. Early snows boost Alpine ski resorts (more) By James Cove
Mark Alexander
