El Niño pattern may increase snowfall for U.S. ski season

Meteorologists at OpenSnow suggest that a strong El Niño pattern may increase the likelihood of a snowier 2026-27 ski season in the United States. This follows a period where the West experienced one of its worst snowpacks on record.

During a recent webinar, founding meteorologist Joel Gratz noted that while forecasts contain nuance, there is a signal for a more active late season. Historically, El Niño patterns have been associated with increased precipitation and storminess later in the winter, particularly in states like Colorado.

Industry representatives from various locations, including Monarch Ski Area in Colorado, Vail Resorts properties such as Park City in Utah, and several East Coast resorts, attended the briefing to assess the potential impact on the upcoming season.