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Snowboarding and skiing are activities for the winter. However, in California, these chilly sporting activities are quite accessible right now in the midst of the summer season. The Golden State, which is known primarily for its beaches and warm climate, has surprised both locals and tourists.

Unforeseen weather conditions and unexpected snowfall have amazed skiers and snowboarders who will make sure to get their twists and turns in before summer finally takes over. Thanks to the rare snowy conditions this year, California will be celebrating the 4th of July weekend in a very different way.

A unique 4th of July for California

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The 4th of July weekend can be often associated with barbecuing and beach parties, followed by a fireworks show. This year, thousands of locals and visitors will head to the slopes and celebrate the nation’s independence by navigating icy trails. It would be a one-of-a-kind experience for those visiting the slopes of Northern California’s Majestic Mammoth Mountain, which is primed for an estimated 10,000 patriotic runs.

The unexpected snow even covered entire chair lifts, which were dug out by the staff, eventually. When asked about how intense it was to dig them out, Clifford Mann, senior advisor for Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, said to NBC News, “Very. There were some that it took us a number of days to get dug out.” Previous records were also shattered, with a total of 900 inches of snow covering the summit this summer. Many believe that they should enjoy this silver lining while they can, as the upcoming winter may be rough and harsh.

For the past couple of years, the resort has been opening up till May, and in some years extending a month or two as well. While all this unexpected snow is delightful for skiing lovers, it takes a toll on the resort’s crews. Their rescue tasks and shoveling duties increase during excessive snow, and that means staying late or coming to work early. Although this may seem incredible, the change in weather conditions signals a larger concern – global warming.

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Global warming effects in California

It’s just not the unexpected snow that may bother California. The Golden State is also battling extremes of drought and floods over the past couple of years. In addition to all this, California has witnessed its fair share of wildfires over the years, like the 2020 California wildfires that burned over 4.3 million acres and with a loss of more than $15 billion.

Read more: “Really Special”: Surfing and Skiing Can Be Done on the Same Day at One of the Most Lesser Known Destinations of the World

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The unexpected snow this season may bring happiness to skiers and resort owners, but the long-term effects of such climate change cannot be ignored any longer.

Watch this story: Relive the Thrill of Surfing Surrounded by Snowy Mountains in This Dreamy Video