BOONE, N.C. — Winter has returned to the mountains and local ski resorts are already prepping for the season.
The mountains saw snow over the weekend in the higher elevations. Resorts are hoping to open for skiing this weekend.
Channel 9′s Dave Faherty went to both the Appalachian and Sugar Mountain ski resorts, where they have been making snow since the weekend when temperatures started to nose-dive.
In less than 48 hours, the resorts have been able to bury the mountainside with 8-20 inches of snow.
“It definitely seems earlier this year, but I’m here for it,” said Brittany Robinson, a local snowboarder. “Last year, we were at 70 degrees on Christmas, so when we can get out here and enjoy this mountain, we’re happy to do it.”
The attention turns to sleet and freezing rain that is expected to arrive in the high country around daybreak tomorrow.
Avery County schools are on a two-hour delay Tuesday.
Click here for more closings and delays.
(WATCH BELOW: Fall colors increase tourism in North Carolina mountains)
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