Ski resorts in the Andes are facing a severe snow shortage due to a yearslong drought that has plagued the region. The main ski resorts in the metropolitan area have had to suspend the use of up to 90% of their slopes, according to the Chilean Ski Resorts Association (ACESKI).
Impact on Tourism
The region, which is a popular destination for tourists from the US looking to ski during the North American summer, has seen a significant impact on its tourism industry. In 2025, the region’s ski resorts welcomed over 1.2 million skiers, with a direct economic impact of $283 million, of which $228 million came from foreign tourists.
However, with the lack of snow, the region’s reputation is at risk of melting away. Authorities are warning that the region may need to find other ways to entice tourists to spend their money in the long term.
Arnaldo Zúñiga, a meteorologist and spokesperson for Chile’s Meteorological Directorate (DMC), stated that the trends indicating climate change suggest a decrease in precipitation, which would result in less snowfall. Zúñiga noted that the last snowfall on June 21 only brought 24 centimeters of snow, a nearly 60% shortfall from a normal year in the mountains.
Adapting to the New Reality
In response to the snow shortage, some slopes are resorting to creating snow artificially, while hotels and restaurants are doing their best to stay optimistic. ACESKI president Michael Leatherbee mentioned that the association has invested in systems and technologies to make snow over the last 15 years.
Chilean authorities are now trying to move toward four-season tourism, where there is activity in the mountains throughout the year. This could include nature tours, hiking, wellness-related activities, and culinary events – none of which rely on snow.
María Paz Lagos, Chile’s Undersecretary of Tourism, emphasized that the ski season alone generates around 18,000 jobs and that the contribution to the development of the regions should continue to grow.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
