It is still too early to measure the impact of the rain in ski resorts in the Quebec region.
• Also read: Another record falls: We experienced the hottest December 18th in Quebec
“We are waiting for the rain to end to assess the impact on the condition of our slopes. It is certain that we will not start from scratch. With the snow that has been made we still have good coverage. We will be able to assess this more precisely based on the rainfall,” said Mélanie Morneau, general manager of the Le Relais ski center in Lac-Beauport.
The relay started its activities on December 1st with around ten hiking trails open. However, due to the weather, the mountain is closed today and tomorrow.
“This allows water to flow to maintain what we have,” Ms Morneau added.
Temporarily closed
The Place d'Youville and Plains of Abraham ice rinks are temporarily closed today to protect the ice.
“Cooling systems prevent ice loss. Renewal work will be necessary as soon as conditions permit, but this will not entail any additional costs,” said Jean-Pascale Lavoie, spokesperson for the City of Quebec.
“Obviously the rain and mild weather are currently making it impossible to open non-refrigerated outdoor rinks,” he added.
Several conditions must be met for the opening of outdoor ice skating rinks. This includes that the outside temperature must be -15°C for three consecutive days and the ground must be frozen or at least covered in snow.
Snowmobile clubs
The situation is not much better on the snowmobile trails in the Quebec region, where we were hoping for an early start to the season.
“We had some nice snowfalls and expected an earlier start to the season, but ultimately it will be pretty similar to previous years,” said Mario Bernier, president of the Le Petit Sentier snowmobile club.
Last year, this club's tracks in the Quebec region opened after New Year's Day.
“Which isn’t necessarily unusual given the global warming we’re experiencing, even if it’s not welcome,” Bernier said.
“Not all outdoor activities are fun, especially as the holiday season approaches,” he added.
Can you share information about this story?
Write to us or call us directly at 1 800-63SCOOP.