Ski resorts left almost snowless

Warm temperatures in the last two months of 2015 have raised concerns for those looking forward to ski and snowboard holidays

Samuel Osborne
Thursday 24 December 2015 17:08 GMT
Comments
Skiers in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland. The snow has melted as a result of the mild temperatures throughout the last few days
Skiers in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland. The snow has melted as a result of the mild temperatures throughout the last few days (EPA)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Skiers have been left dismayed after arriving at resorts with little to no snow.

Warm temperatures in the last two months of 2015 have raised concerns for those looking forward to ski and snowboard holidays.

In the resort of Leysin, Switzerland, the snow has melted as a result of mild temperatures throughout the last few days.

A Skier in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland. The snow has melted as a result of the mild temperatures throughout the last few days.
A Skier in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland. The snow has melted as a result of the mild temperatures throughout the last few days. (EPA)
Skiers in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland
Skiers in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland (EPA)

Skiiers can still be seen attempting to tackle the slopes, which are maintained by artificial snow machines.

Climatologists say the warmer winter is a result of El Niño, which has warmed the Pacific Ocean.

El Niño is thought to be behind a series of unusual weather events this year, and could make 2016 the hottest on record.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in