With record-breaking warm temperatures, the Washington D.C. region has so far witnessed a rather balmy December. Area ski resorts have watched in vain as temperatures have climbed as high as the upper 70’s, removing any chance of snowmaking. Skiers and snowboarders can now breathe a sigh of relief, however, as temperatures gradually lower to more seasonal levels.

Temperatures this week will fall to daytime highs in the upper forties, with nighttime lows dipping below freezing. West Virginia’s Snowshoe Mountain Resort, which had to close its seven open slopes this past weekend, is currently making snow and hopes to re-open some slopes for the weekend. Snowshoe was the first resort south of New York to open. If temperatures remain low, other area resorts will initiate snowmaking in an effort to open at least partial terrain for the Christmas holiday.

Snowmaking is most effective when temperatures are in the low- to mid-20’s, with low humidity and wind. A few days of round-the-clock snowmaking will allow most resorts in the area to lay down a good base of snow. Stay tuned to DCSki for the latest weather and snowmaking updates.