Australian Ski Resorts Shatter July Heat Records – Climate Impact 2026

Australian ski resorts have shattered July climate records, with temperatures soaring up to 12°C above average, raising urgent questions about the future of skiing in a warming world. The Bureau of Meteorology confirms that Mount Hotham, Falls Creek, and Thredbo all set new hottest July days, with Mount Hotham reaching 12°C on Sunday – more than double its average daily maximum of zero.

Record-Breaking Heat in the Australian Alps

The extreme warmth was driven by a slow-moving high pressure system that brought clear skies and descending dry air. This also created a temperature inversion, where it was cooler at sea level than at higher altitudes – a rare phenomenon for winter. The previous July record at Mount Hotham (8.7°C in 1994) has been broken three times this month alone.

How Climate Change Is Reshaping the Ski Season

Climate scientists have long warned that global heating will make conditions difficult for Australia’s ski resorts. The current El Niño in the tropical Pacific, combined with the bureau’s long-range forecast, points to generally drier and warmer conditions – a bad combination for natural snow. Resorts are increasingly relying on snow-making technology to maintain slopes.

Impacts on Snow Depth and Ski Operations

With only sporadic natural snowfall this season, artificial snow production has been critical. However, warmer temperatures reduce the hours available for snow-making, raising costs and limiting coverage. The ski season may shorten significantly if these trends continue.

• Record heat in July reduces natural snowpack and accelerates melt.
• Snow-making becomes less efficient above freezing temperatures.
• Shorter ski seasons affect tourism revenue and local economies.
• El Niño amplifies warming, creating a cycle of less snow and more heat.

What the Experts Are Saying

Senior forecaster Angus Hines noted that “these temperatures were a substantial departure from the norm and even from previous bursts of heat for July.” He warned that this highlights “the likely issues we will have with ski seasons into the future with a warming climate.” Warmer conditions are expected to persist through midweek, with possible light snow by the weekend – but temperatures are forecast to climb again early next week.

Long-Term Outlook for Australian Ski Resorts

If emissions continue to rise, the Australian Alps could lose up to 60% of their snow cover by 2050, according to studies from the CSIRO. Ski resorts are investing in advanced snow-making and diversifying summer activities, but the fundamental challenge remains a warming planet.

FAQ

The record heat in the Australian Alps serves as a stark warning: the climate crisis is already reshaping winter sports. For skiers and snowboarders, the window to enjoy Australia’s mountains may be narrowing – and the industry must act now to mitigate impacts.