Ski resorts left almost snowless

Warm temperatures in the last two months of 2015 have raised concerns for those looking forward to ski and snowboard holidays

Samuel Osborne
Thursday 24 December 2015 12:08 EST
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Skiers in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland. The snow has melted as a result of the mild temperatures throughout the last few days
Skiers in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland. The snow has melted as a result of the mild temperatures throughout the last few days (EPA)

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Skiers have been left dismayed after arriving at resorts with little to no snow.

Warm temperatures in the last two months of 2015 have raised concerns for those looking forward to ski and snowboard holidays.

In the resort of Leysin, Switzerland, the snow has melted as a result of mild temperatures throughout the last few days.

A Skier in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland. The snow has melted as a result of the mild temperatures throughout the last few days.
A Skier in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland. The snow has melted as a result of the mild temperatures throughout the last few days. (EPA)
Skiers in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland
Skiers in action on a ski slope covered with artificial snow surrounded by green fields, in the Swiss Alps, during Christmas holydays, in Leysin, Switzerland (EPA)

Skiiers can still be seen attempting to tackle the slopes, which are maintained by artificial snow machines.

Climatologists say the warmer winter is a result of El Niño, which has warmed the Pacific Ocean.

El Niño is thought to be behind a series of unusual weather events this year, and could make 2016 the hottest on record.

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