Changing climate making snowmobiling riskier, OPP say
Global News
Ontario Provincial Police say 13 snowmobilers have died so far this season -- which runs from November to April -- with many falling through ice.
Police in Ontario are warning that climate change is shortening the snowmobiling season and making a growing number of trails dangerous for riders across the province.
Ontario Provincial Police say 13 snowmobilers have died so far this season — which runs from November to April — with many falling through ice. A total of 13 people died last snowmobiling season but police note that this season isn’t over yet.
Paul Beaton, OPP’s motorized snow vehicle co-ordinator, said milder winters have shortened the snowmobiling season and that’s concerning.
“Maybe that does represent an increase because we’re having the same number of deaths over a shorter period of time,” Beaton said in a phone interview.
“We do have a very narrow season and we’re seeing it reduce year after year.”
The number of trails in Ontario not safe for snowmobiling has increased as the season shortens, he said
“This may tie into global warming,” Beaton said.
Milder winters have altered snowmobiling routes that might once have been considered safe, he said.
