The number of ski days in Oslo has drastically fallen over the last few decades, with data from the Meteorological Institute revealing a more than 50% reduction since the 1952 Winter Olympics. In 1952, when Oslo hosted the Winter Olympics, there were 146 ski days, while last year saw only 65 ski days. This represents a stark contrast to the 180 ski days recorded in 1920, indicating a long-term decline in snow availability and winter sports opportunities in the region.

Meteorological statistics indicate that in order to create ski tracks, there must be at least 25 centimeters of snow, a threshold that Oslo’s Nordmarka has struggled to meet in recent years. With data available from Bjørnholt since 1898, researchers note a clear downward trend in snowfall. Climate researcher Helga Therese Tilley Tajet highlighted that warming temperatures contribute to later snowfalls in autumn and earlier melt in spring, directly impacting the number of days suitable for skiing.

The decline in ski days not only affects recreational skiing but also points to broader implications for winter sports, tourism, and local economies that depend on winter sports activities. The worrying trend reflects climate change's impact on seasonal weather patterns and underscores the urgent need for addressing environmental issues to protect winter sports traditions in Norway.