This is in response to a comment on the following article (comment is on the french version) : https://blogue.tremblant.ca/lifts-update-for-wednesday-january-23/
January 20th was an exceptional day on this winter’s calendar. The day began on in a very unusual manner with an electrical storm, the only condition that does not allow us to operate the mountain for security reasons. We were forced to cancel the First Tracks, stop the operating ski lifts, and stop the pre-operation inspections of other lifts and of the slopes. We were in direct communication with a meteorologist from Environment Canada to launch back our operations as soon as safety issues were behind us. As soon as the storm cell moved away from the mountain, we were able to reopen the mountain. From this point on, we did everything we could to minimize the impact of this delay on our operations.
Employees were called in earlier in anticipation of snow removal on the lifts. However, the Edge chair still did open with an 11-minute delay.
There was no mechanical failure on the Expo Express on Sunday. Just like the Gondola, this lift is very exposed to wind (see video below). We were unable to operate the lift safely with the strong winds blowing from the Gagnon run. It pushed with such force on the chairs at the top of the terminal that theses ended up sticking to one another, triggering the safety system alarm and causing the lift to stop.
It is pertinent to note that many ski resorts begin operating at 8:30 a.m. or 9 a.m. The Tremblant staff puts a lot of effort into delivering the First Tracks daily and allows our guests to get up on the lifts as early as 7:45 a.m. (weather permitting). Mont Tremblant is the highest peak in the Laurentians. It is exposed to extreme weather and our concern is to ensure safe operations. Plans are expected to change from time to time.
We sincerely apologize for not being able to deliver the usual expected experience. In addition to leaving us with a beautiful snowfall, this storm has created a lot of problems… We thank you for your understanding and assure you that we always make operational decisions with your safety as top priority.
Video taken at the top of Expo Express after the closing.