Pakistan, Jan. 27 -- Heavy snow has arrived in the Italian Alps just in time for the start of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, easing concerns about green slopes and the reliance on artificial snow for competition venues.

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From Bormio, which will host ski mountaineering events, to the Antholz valley, site of biathlon races, venues have been blanketed with fresh snow less than two weeks ahead of the opening ceremony on February 6, according to meteorologists. Pictures from the region show snow-covered peaks, low-hanging clouds, and fields glistening white.

"The snow has arrived," said Italian meteorologist Mattia Gussoni, adding that further heavy snowfall i...