SoCal ski resorts back in business after snow covers slopes

WRIGHTWOOD, Calif. (KABC) -- Ski resorts in the Southern California mountains had a dry, slow start to winter this year.

Before this week, the region was experiencing one of its driest seasons on record.

"We traditionally get a sizable snowstorm every November, every December. Then January it really turns on all the way through March," said Mountain High spokesman John McColly.

"Not this year."

But this week saw 4-7 inches of snow fall in some areas, bringing an influx of skiers and a boost to local business.

That has allowed resorts like Mountain High - as well as the downtown stores that serve out-of-towners - to resume business as usual. They saw a rush of Southern Californians, coming from Orange County or nearby cities in the Inland Empire, flock to the slopes.

Businesses are hoping the trend will continue with additional snowfall through the end of the season to keep the slopes full and the lifts running.