Ski mountains struggle with snow shortage

Many ski mountains and resorts across the northeast are reporting poor turnout and conditions as a result of below-normal snowfall so far this winter.

Although mountains to the west of the Alleghenies are doing well, officials at Tussey Mountain near Boalsburg told 6News on Friday that this is one of the worst seasons they have seen in years.

Tussey Mountain Marketing Director Aaron Weyman said Happy Valley has missed out on several storms and conditions have not been suitable to use snow guns.

“We’ve had some days where it’s 24 degrees, which is normally cold, but humidity is 80 percent. You’re just blowing snow into the air. It’s getting wet really fast and it’s not laying right,” said Weyman. “It talks a lot of water and a lot of energy to make snow. This year, if we get two hours of snow-making, you better believe we’re out there making it.”

Several miles away in downtown State College, crews hauled in snow to create a ramps for the Red Bull Butter Cup, where amateur and professional snowboarders competed for cash prizes.

Penn State student and avid snowboarder Brian Rinciari told 6News he’s disappointed with Mother Nature this year.

“It’s terrible. There’s no snow. There’s nothing to do,” said Rincairi. “(The ramp) helps out a bit. Them bringing snow in is definitely really good.”

Tim Osusky told 6News that there’s even less snow at mountains near his home in New Jersey, but he’s remaining optimistic.

“I’m hoping we get at least one more big snowstorm, so I can get out there some more,” said Osusky.