Snowmaking using a TechnoAlpin Snow Factory machine is underway at Cairngorm ski area above Aviemore in Scotland.
SnowFactories are large articulated units which, unlike conventional snowmaking machines, make snow within their internal chambers before spraying it on to the slopes. Snow can therefore be made regardless of the external temperature.
Three of Scotland's areas are due to use them this winter, all three believed to be on a 'lease with option to purchase' basis. Glencoe's unit is due to arrive in a few days' time and The Lecht will get a unit in the New Year and will use renewable energy from their wind turbine to power theirs.
Glencoe is the ski area that has focussed hardest on getting a Snow Factory installed, crowd funding and raising money in every way they can and are continuing to do so being certain they want a unit permanently.
Cairngorm had initially talked about installing a dry slope but have now dropped that plan.
SnowFactories make snow in any temperature but the snow does still melt once in positive temperatures and coverage is limited, with the centres mostly planning to use it for beginner areas and terrain parks.
Scotland had a very bad season last winter for snow cover with most ski areas only able to open limited terrain for a few days or weeks all season. This season four of the five Highland areas opened early for the season at the start of December but most were forced to close again at the start of this week as warm weather moved in, thawing much of the cover.
Storm Caroline brought winds of over 110mph to the peak of Cairngorm on Wednesday and Thursday but it's now getting cold again and 4-5 days of heavy snow is expected with areas hoping to re-open at the weekend with fresh, natural snow.