Bariloche, Argentina Buried by 4-8 Feet of Early-Season Snowfall

Ski resorts aren't expected to open for over a month, but as you can imagine, that's not stopping skiers from getting after it.

I checked in with David Owen, founder and owner of Andes backcountry guiding service 'PowderQuest' to get a better understanding of how the locals are reacting to the heavy snowfall, and what it might mean for the South American ski season.

The following is an excerpt from our email conversation.

David Owen Q&A- Bariloche, Argentina Early Season Snowfall

How much snow (roughly) has fallen in Bariloche so far this early season?

"After a few dustings in April, a series of storms rolled in over the past week dropping over four feet in the resort village and eight feet at the top of Cerro Catedral Ski Resort and the surrounding peaks."

Why are you in Bariloche, Argentina?

"I am currently traveling, but some of our ski guides are in Bariloche preparing for our guided trips scheduled to run July to October."

What has been the local reaction? Is this normal? Abnormal?

"This is not normal. Everyone has been blown away. The locals are claiming this is an historical event. It has been snowing for nearly a week now. While May always sees snow in Patagonia, the intensity of these back to back storms has never been seen this time of year. Patagonia is absolutely buried."

What is the weather typically like this time of year in Bariloche?

"Cool temps with smaller storms bringing snow and rain. You know, the typical pre-season teasers that get everyone excited for winter. This storm however has been a different beast. Absolutely massive."

How much backcountry skiing have you been able to do already?

"Not much. Avalanche danger is high at the moment so most have been poaching the ski resort, sticking to the lower angle terrain and keeping it safe. Once things settle it will be great to get out and explore."

What have the conditions been like?

"Deep! The trail breaking has been a lot of work, but worth it for some fun early season turns. Good dry powder up high and heavier snow near the base. This snow is great to build the early season base."

What does a deep early-season mean for the rest of the ski season in Bariloche/South America?

"Most likely early openings and great base coverage for some ski areas. In fact, Cerro Catedral is doing a short, "soft opening" from this Thursday to Sunday( May 9-11) for local residents.

While Bariloche has been hit the hardest, all the ski areas in Argentina's Patagonia are also covered in snow. Over in Chile, Nevados de Chillan, Corralco and the smaller ski areas south have also been hit quite hard this week. 

Finally, further north, Chile's Portillo, Valle Nevado, La Parva and El Colorado along with Argentina's Las Lenas have missed out, but over a foot is in the forecast for these resorts tonight. Despite it being super early, things overall are looking great. Let's hope it keeps up."