Saskatchewan ski hills desperate for warm days as cold forces closures

Intense Cold Impacts Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan has recently endured some of the coldest temperatures on record, bringing significant challenges for residents and businesses alike. While the province is no stranger to harsh winters, this year’s extreme cold has been particularly severe, affecting even industries that typically thrive in colder conditions. One such business is Optimist Hill, a popular winter destination. Maxine Tebbe, the general manager of Optimist Hill, described the past month as “a lot of rough days in February.” The cold weather forced the hill to close or reduce its operating hours multiple times, disrupting plans for visitors and staff alike.

Effects on Winter Businesses

The challenges faced by Optimist Hill are not unique. Other ski hills and winter recreational facilities across Saskatchewan have also been impacted by the record-breaking cold. Mission Ridge, another ski hill in the province, has had to close multiple times due to the extreme temperatures. Anders Svenson, the business manager at Mission Ridge, expressed frustration over the timing of the cold snap. “It’s unfortunate when it lines up on February break when all the kids are out of school and people plan their holidays,” Svenson said. The closures have not only disappointed visitors but also affected the businesses’ revenue during what is typically one of the busiest times of the year.

Impact on School Activities

The cold weather has also disrupted school groups and family holidays. Many schools had planned visits to ski hills during the winter break, but the extreme cold forced these plans to be canceled. Eileen Shaw, the general manager at Wapiti Valley Ski Resort, noted that schools had to cancel their visits on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of the break. This has been a common experience across the province, as schools and families have had to adjust their plans due to the unsafe conditions. The loss of these visits has been a significant blow to the ski hills, which rely on school groups and holidaymakers during this time.

Looking Ahead to Warmer Days

Despite the challenges, there is a sense of optimism as warmer temperatures are forecasted for the coming days. Temperatures are expected to rise above freezing heading into the weekend and remain mild throughout the following week. This warming trend is welcome news for businesses like Optimist Hill, Mission Ridge, and Wapiti Valley Ski Resort, which are hoping to recover from the disruptions caused by the cold. Svenson from Mission Ridge commented, “Hopefully the long-term forecast stays accurate, and if it is, it should be a good end to the year.” The warmer weather is expected to bring an influx of visitors, helping these businesses make up for lost time.

Resilience of Local Businesses

The ability of these businesses to adapt to the extreme cold is a testament to their resilience. Despite the challenges, they remain committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for their visitors. Tebbe from Optimist Hill noted that while the cold has been tough, the staff has worked hard to reschedule events and activities when possible. This dedication to customer satisfaction is crucial for maintaining trust and loyalty among visitors. As the weather begins to warm up, these businesses are hopeful that they can finish the winter season on a positive note.

A Long-Term Perspective

Looking ahead, the experience of this winter serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of weather and its impact on businesses and communities. While the immediate focus is on recovering from the cold snap, there are lessons to be learned for future planning. By understanding the challenges posed by extreme weather, businesses can develop strategies to mitigate their impact in the years to come. For now, though, the warmer temperatures offer a much-needed reprieve and the chance to enjoy the remaining weeks of winter in Saskatchewan.