Snow training

How is it that the European railroads cannot face up to white fluff falling from the sky? I just don't understand. Every time snow falls the whole network is in chaos. Not only the high-speed Thalys and Eurostar fall short, but also the regular trains. Is it that hard to make the rails winter proof? I'm actually really wondering. Can anyone tell me why it is so hard to have a snow plan ready for snow days? An adjusted, maybe more limited but reliable schedule? Precautions on those switches that might freeze shut? ...

Well...at least I got a nice picture out of it today... and the train conductor was still cheery and upbeat - announcing happily when we finally arrived to our destination that we had survived the adventure together :)