The 2024 winter ski season is off to a slow start. The snowfall in the US and Canada is below average, making ski conditions far from ideal. Climate change is a growing concern for winter sports and industry professionals. Warmer temperatures are leading to shorter winter seasons, which means the opportunities for skiing have become increasingly more narrow. Additionally, snow totals are decreasing. 

According to Marie Cavitte, a glaciologist and climate researcher at the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium, snow depth is shrinking by 3-4 cm (1.2-1.6in) every 10 years at low altitude resorts in Europe. This change not only affects the amount of natural snowfall but also the quality of the snow, which can be less powdery and more icy negatively affecting ski experience.

The unpredictable weather patterns make it harder for ski resorts to plan and maintain the best conditions. Some resorts are even investing in artificial snowmaking equipment due to the lack of natural snow, but there are some environmental concerns with these machines. For starters, they require a large amount of water and in areas where water resources are limited, it can put a strain on local water supplies. Also, the energy required to operate these machines is hazardous. However, some places are taking steps to address these concerns by creating more efficient snowmaking systems and exploring renewable energy options.

The economic situation is also noteworthy. Ski resorts and surrounding communities that rely on winter tourism are starting to feel the financial pressure, as they try to adapt to changes with snowfall and temperature. Ski resorts are changing various activities and attractions in efforts to appeal to visitors year round as a way to be more financially stable from the impacts of shorter ski seasons. 

Climate change is challenging the ski industry to innovate and adapt to the changing temperatures. It's also sparking a conversation about the sustainability and future of winter sports, as well as giving us a wake up call to take climate change seriously as we see more things we love being affected by it. As we move forward the actions we take to address climate change will be crucial in saving the ski seasons we cherish.