An Australian ski resort which was almost completely destroyed by a bush fire in January 2020 has announced it will re-open in July.
Selwyn Snow Resort in the state of New South Wales had its base building completely gutted in the forest fires and its lifts destroyed or severely damaged.
"We are so excited to announce that our opening day is Saturday July 2nd!" the resort posted on its social media channels on 27th April.
Although Selwyn missed the 2020 and 2021 Australian ski seasons whilst a new base building was constructed and lifts repaired or replaced, in the event most Australian ski areas were closed for all or most of both seasons too due to the global pandemic hitting a few months after the bush fires.
"It takes a village to bring a snow resort back to life over a short period, and whilst we are making great progress, we thank you in advance for your understanding, patience, and kindness. We will provide more info on lift tickets, lessons and rental equipment on May 16th," Selwyn's statement continues.
Forest fires appear to be another existential threat to ski areas worldwide from climate change, on top of melting glaciers and diminishing snowpacks, with increasing numbers of more sever fires reported and also taking place in winter, not just summer and autumn. Last autumn Sierra-at-Tahoe ski area in California was damaged by fire and has been closed for most of this season as repairs take place. The same huge fire reached the borders of Heavenly ski area and led to South Lake Tahoe being evacuated for several days. Another fire is currently reported to be threatening Ski Apache in New Mexico.