Washington Ski Resort Closes As Massive Snow Storm Turns To Rain

Ian Greenwood
·1 min read
4

After a weekend of snowy weather, the rain has arrived at Crystal Mountain, Washington.

On Instagram, the resort shared that it will be closed today and tomorrow because "warmer temps and rain are in the forecast."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Crystal Mountain (@crystalmountain)

Crystal Mountain opened for the season this past weekend on December 2nd, taking advantage of a storm that deposited several inches of fresh snow.

As predicted in the forecast, though, the freezing level has climbed, leading NOAA to issue a flood warning for the Cascade Range. NOAA reports five to nine inches are possible in the Cascades through Wednesday night.

Unsurprisingly, Crystal's holding out as the rain storm blows through, with plans to reopen for the rest of the season starting Wednesday, December 6th. NOAA anticipates that the freezing level will fall Wednesday morning, hopefully delivering more snow to Crystal.

Other ski resorts in the state are feeling the effects of the wet conditions. The Summit at Snoqualmie, which has yet to open for the season, saw 20 inches of snow this weekend but remains closed due to the rain. In a recent Instagram post, The Summit stated, "Opening day for the 23/24 season is still TBD." Stevens Pass, too, hasn't announced an opening date.

It's an unpleasant bait and switch—only made worse because the Pacific Northwest has seen little precipitation this season. First, much-needed snow. Then, rain. Few things are more frustrating. At least PNW skiers are used to the old freeze-thaw cycle by now.

Sending cold thoughts Washington's direction!

Related: "Look At These Psychos"-Skiers Jockey For First Chair

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