KHMR: Record-breaking snowfall

La Nina blesses Kicking Horse and other ski resorts throughout the Kootenay Rockies.

The forces of La Nina have arrived and produced outstanding ski conditions at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. This winter storm cycle has dropped over 60 centimetres of fresh snow in the past 24 hours, over 80 centimetres in the past 48 hours, and snowfall is expected through until next Tuesday.

“This snowfall system is probably the biggest snowfall the region has seen in 30 years,” said Steve Paccagnan, president and CEO of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. “Ski conditions on the mountain are nothing short of epic. It is going to be an amazing weekend on the mountain. Please drive safely and check road conditions.”

Accumulations on the mountain have been measured at a rate surpassing six centimetres per hour. This snowfall has built the mid-mountain base up to 175 centimetres and is making major contributions towards a record-breaking snowfall season at the resort. Season snowfall to date is presently exceeds 380 centimetres. Heavy snowfall is expected to continue through Friday evening, with moderate snowfall forecasted for the next four days.

The Kicking Horse Mountain Resort operation teams have been working non-stop to ensure as much alpine terrain can be opened as possible. The public is asked to respect temporary terrain management closures and be patient as safety work is being conducted on the mountain.