The thaw is making it difficult to practice several winter sports in several regions of Quebec, particularly in Mauricie, where conditions have also deteriorated due to the rain that fell on Wednesday evening.
We are thinking, among others, of snowmobilers, skiers and hikers who have not been practicing their sport in the best conditions for a few days.
The snowmobile trails were already in better condition. If we rely on County Champlain north of Trois-Rivières, swamplands are a problem. The water has risen to the surface, making it impossible to use a conditioner. Snowmobilers leave the trails to avoid water and reduce trail quality.
On the rivers it is still advisable to walk, despite the water that lands on the ice. The mild phase was not long enough to endanger user safety.
In order to find better conditions, you need at least ten centimeters of snow and significantly colder temperatures. In addition, the paths are covered with ice.
The city of Trois-Rivières had no choice but to close its outdoor ice rinks. They are covered with water and the ice floor is thinning.
“Due to the weather conditions forecast for the next few days, Trois-Rivières will close access to its outdoor ice rinks up to and including Thursday 16 February,” the commune announced on its website.
However, the Bleu Blanc Bouge refrigerated ice rink will remain open.
The rain also forced the closure of ski resorts. The Vallée du Parc had to close its doors on Wednesday evening and Mont Gleasen did not open all day on Thursday.