California Ski Season Off to a Rocky Start: Climate Change and the Future of Snowsports
California’s ski season is facing familiar challenges this year, with delayed openings and unpredictable conditions becoming increasingly common. Mammoth Mountain, the state’s highest-elevation resort, recently pushed back its opening date due to unseasonably warm temperatures despite an early November atmospheric river event. This situation highlights a growing trend: climate change is fundamentally altering the landscape of snowsports in the Golden State.
A Delayed Start to Winter
Initially slated to open November 14th,Mammoth Mountain had to wait for colder temperatures. While the atmospheric river promised a blanket of snow, mountainside temperatures remained too high for effective snowmaking or natural accumulation. Disappointed skiers and snowboarders shared videos of muddy slopes on social media, showcasing the less-than-ideal conditions.
Thankfully, a moderate storm and aggressive snowmaking efforts allowed Mammoth to open on Thursday with limited lifts. However, snowfall totals remain below average, setting a concerning tone for the season.
other resorts are navigating similar hurdles:
* Palisades Tahoe: Scheduled to open Wednesday, just in time for Thanksgiving.
* Kirkwood: Aiming for a December 5th opening.
* Big Bear Mountain Resort: Currently without a firm opening date, with only 1-2 inches of snow.
If you’re planning a trip closer to Los Angeles, patience will be key.
The new Normal: Climate Whiplash
These early-season struggles aren’t isolated incidents. california’s ski resorts are experiencing what experts call “climate whiplash” – a rapid shift between extreme drought and extreme precipitation. Recent years demonstrate this volatility:
* 2020 & 2021: Alarmingly low snowfall.
* 2022-23: A record-breaking season for Mammoth Mountain, with over 700 inches of snow at the main lodge.
“We’re going through this climate whiplash of extreme drought years to extreme wet years – there are just no average years anymore,” explains Doug Obegi, a senior attorney at the National Resources Defence Council. “And we’re seeing that we are not prepared for either of those extremes.”
Looking Ahead: A Warmer, Drier Future
the long-term forecast isn’t encouraging. Researchers predict that rising temperatures will push average snowlines 1,300 to 1,600 feet higher in the Sierra Nevada by the late 21st century. This means less terrain will be reliably covered in snow, and resorts will face increasing challenges maintaining operations.
snow seasons are expected to trend warmer and drier, impacting not only the length of the ski season but also the quality of the snow itself.
The Double-Edged Sword of Extreme Snow
While a heavy snowfall year might sound ideal, it presents its own set of problems. Extreme storms increase the risk of avalanches, forcing resorts to temporarily close lifts for safety.Furthermore, rapid snowmelt in the spring can lead to:
* Dangerous flooding: Increased runoff overwhelms waterways.
* Worsened wildfire season: Moist conditions can fuel vegetation growth, creating more fuel for fires later in the year. (As detailed in this Scientific American article: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/in-vicious-cycle-snowmelt-fuels-wildfires-and-wildfires-melt-snow/)
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re a California skier or snowboarder,here’s what you need to know:
* Be flexible: Opening dates are increasingly subject to change.
* Check conditions frequently: Stay updated on snow reports and resort operations.
* Consider option locations: Explore resorts at different elevations or in other regions.
* Support lasting practices: Choose resorts committed to environmental stewardship.
The future of skiing in California depends on proactive adaptation and a commitment to addressing climate change. While the challenges are critically important, the passion for snowsports and the dedication of resort operators offer a glimmer of hope for preserving this beloved winter tradition.
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