Fantastic Conditions from Top to Bottom
Skiers and riders have been raving about conditions lately—and for good reason. Nearly 40 centimetres of natural snow fell over the past week, pushing the seasonal total to 200 centimetres, and we’re still only in January. This pattern has been a dream for Blue’s operations teams as well, delivering prime snowmaking weather with frequent top-ups from Mother Nature.
Early risers and late-day cruisers are being rewarded with soft, edgeable corduroy, especially right after the groomers make their afternoon pass. It doesn’t get much better than that!
The average base depth has climbed to 90 centimetres, closing in on the one-metre target depth. That deep snow goes a long way toward ensuring a strong and extended second half of the ski season.
Bundle Up This Week
We’re heading into the second week of a very cold weather pattern. While the Polar Vortex is weakening, its lingering effects will be felt through Friday. Daytime temperatures will average more than five degrees below seasonal, and night skiers might need to take more frequent breaks to warm up.
Winds will gust over 40 km/h at times, though that’s an improvement compared to last week. Expect occasional flurries and snow squalls, with another 10 to 20 centimetres of fresh snow possible through the end of the week.
The lake-effect snow machine will begin to shut down as Georgian Bay and Lake Huron continue to freeze over heading into February. The trade-off? More sunshine on the slopes. Next weekend is shaping up to be a beauty, with moderating temperatures, lighter winds, and plenty of sun.
Day-to-Day on the Slopes
Tuesday & Wednesday:
Cold with scattered flurries (5–10 cm). Afternoon highs near -10°C, dropping to -14°C for night skiing. Breezy, with wind gusts up to 40 km/h, producing wind chills between -18 and -23.
Thursday & Friday:
Flurries taper off late Thursday (additional 5–10 cm possible). Some sunny breaks may develop Friday. Cold, with highs between -12°C and -14°C and wind chills near -22.
The Weekend:
Sunshine and a gradual warm-up. Temperatures return closer to seasonal by Sunday. Fantastic conditions for skiing, riding, and tubing both days.
Dress for the weather, get out there, and most importantly—have fun!
Senior Meteorologist,
Anthony Farnell
