PNW — A La Niña pattern typically means cold, snowy weather in the Pacific Northwest. However, this hasn’t been the case so far. The situation has been worsened by an atmospheric river that passed through this week.
No ski resort in Oregon has yet to open for the season. These ski resorts rely heavily on natural snowfall. Add in the risk brought forth by expensive liability insurance, and there’s definitely a bit of worry in the state’s ski industry.
As demonstrated by Mt. Baker’s recent video, Washington’s ski industry is also straight up not having a good time.
Mission Ridge was open last weekend, but won’t operate this upcoming weekend. This is due to some of the craziest December weather that they’ve ever seen. Others eyed an opening soon, such as Mt. Spokane and White Pass. However, the rain wiped those hopes away, at least for this weekend.
The ski resorts closer to Seattle have also not received sufficient snowfall. Mostly rain fell at ski resorts like Crystal Mountain, Stevens Pass, and Summit at Snoqualmie. All of a sudden, Summit’s decision to install a snowmaking system this offseason seems very wise.
The good news is that snow is expected to arrive next week. The questions are what the rain-snow line will be, and whether it will be enough to start their seasons.
Update: 12/11 at 6:20 p.m.: This article initially stated that Mission Ridge planned to open this weekend, but they have since announced that the rain will stop them from operating.
Image/Video Credits: Mt. Ashland Ski Area, Mt. Bachelor, Mt. Baker Ski Area, Summit at Snoqualmie, Powderchasers (WeatherBell)
