Ski Resorts Maintain Snow Cover During Summer
The threat of global warming to ski holidays has prompted some resorts to adopt an ancient technique: saving snow over the summer. At places like the Ruka ski resort in Finland, where snow usually begins to melt in April, innovative methods are being used to preserve snow for the following ski season.
These methods involve creating mounds of snow covered with insulating materials like white polystyrene blankets. The snow is stored throughout the summer and uncovered in the autumn, ready for the ski season. This practice, often referred to as “snow farming” or “snow storage,” has become increasingly popular as winters warm and snowfall becomes less predictable.
While traditional snow-making techniques rely on specific weather conditions, such as very cold temperatures and dry air, snow storage allows resorts to focus on the most efficient times to make snow. This can help reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with snow production, although there are still environmental costs to consider.
Despite the challenges and costs involved, snow storage has proven to be a game-changer for resorts like Ruka, extending the ski season and ensuring reliable snow cover for visitors. As the ski industry grapples with the impacts of climate change, innovative solutions like snow storage may become even more crucial in preserving the winter sports experience.
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