Ski resorts across the Argentine Andes, in Patagonia and Mendoza province, are facing a difficult season as a lack of snowfall has left slopes without the thick base needed for skiing.

The crisis comes as most provinces are on winter school break, traditionally the busiest time of year for tourists heading to the mountains to enjoy the snow and winter sports.

A long-awaited snowstorm hit Bariloche (Río Negro province), Villa La Angostura, San Martín de los Andes (Neuquén) and Malargüe (Mendoza) between Tuesday and Wednesday, blanketing the region in snow. 

According to the National Meteorological Service, more snowfall is forecast through Monday, but it may not be enough to build a sufficient base on the ski runs.

These destinations are home to some of Argentina’s best-known ski resorts: Cerro Catedral in Bariloche, Cerro Bayo in Villa La Angostura, Cerro Chapelco in San Martín de los Andes and Las Leñas in Malargüe.

Other major ski resorts, including Cerro Castor in Ushuaia and La Hoya in Esquel, Chubut province, have not experienced the same shortage of snow this year.

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Resorts in the worst-affected........

© Buenos Aires Herald