Snow depths at Australian ski fields down nearly 20% since 1954
Average snow depths have declined nearly 20 per cent since records began in 1954.
On a recent September morning, Perisher's snow guns laid fresh powder, but by noon temperatures hit a balmy 13C and skiers stripped to T-shirts. This winter was one of Australia's warmest and snowless on record.
Ski rental shops in nearby Jindabyne are struggling; shifts are dropping off as visitor numbers fall. One worker with 10 years' experience says everyone is asking 'so this is our new normal'.
Visitors still report having a good time, but the alpine region is changing. Scientists, adventurers and ski field workers all feel it.
A declining ski season threatens tourism jobs across the Snowy Mountains.
- Nearly 20 percent
- Snow decline since 1954
- 13C by noon in early September
- Temperature at Perisher
- 10 years in ski hire business
- Maggie Hume's experience
- Perisher, Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains
- Location
Why it mattersShrinking snow seasons threaten regional jobs and tourism revenue in NSW, and signal how Australia's high country is responding to long-term warming.
AustraliaThe ski industry that supports hundreds of workers and visitors across the Snowy Mountains faces an uncertain future as snow reliability declines.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 12 d ago
