Before visiting the Dolomites in May a couple of years ago, I checked the average temperatures for the region, and it seemed to be quite reasonable with an average low of 48° F and an average high of 73° F. As the trip progressed, we started hearing that the Dolomites were experiencing the coldest and snowiest May in seventy years. When we reached the town of Misurina, it was clear that winter was in full force. After checking into our hotel, we walked to the lake, which had frozen over except for a small area. There I found a small group of mallards taking a frozen swim.