Chilean Ski Resorts Struggle With Severe Snow Drought, Andes

Severe Snow Deficit Threatens Tourism

Santiago lost its classic winter view of snow-covered mountains. A yearslong drought reduced snow across the metropolitan area. Chilean Ski Resorts Association reported massive slope closures.

Winter runs from June through August in Chile. American tourists travel south to ski during the Northern summer. The region welcomed over 1,240,000 skiers in 2025. Foreign tourists contributed $228 million to the economy.

Climate Trends Point to Lower Rainfall

The last snowfall on June 21 brought only 24 centimeters of snow. This represents a nearly 60% shortfall compared to normal years. Meteorologist Arnaldo Zúñiga said, 'It is not normal. We are very much behind.'

Decreasing precipitation drives the snow loss. Authorities blame climate change for the long-term trend. The country must find new ways to attract tourists.

Adapting to Changing Winter Conditions

Resorts rely on artificial snow production to keep businesses open. Operators maintain restaurants and chairlift operations at reduced capacity. The ski season supports 18,000 jobs in the local economy.

Meteorologists track a incoming weather front from the south. Lower temperatures could bring new snow above 2,500 meters altitude. Officials hope for relief early next week.

Will upcoming cold fronts save the current skiing season? Machine snow cannot fully replace natural blizzards across the Andes. Can South American resorts survive warmer winters?