The looming possibility of an unusually warm winter is melting the hearts' out of Beijing's ski resort operators.

Many resorts would have already opened to the public if not for the unusually high temperatures in the capital area. The two week delay has already resulted in an estimated revenue loss of over 100,000 US dollars.

However, even though resorts have decided to open this Saturday, the high maintenance of their ski runs is yet another problem they face.

Snow making machines on local mountains can only provide a base of 30 to 40 centimeters, almost half of the ideal thickness.

According to some experts, the thin base could be dangerous to skiers.

2004/11/30
Source: beijingportal.com.cn