As the Winter Olympics continue, countries that host the worldwide event have less available cold climates suitable for the snow related events due to global warming. Most recently the average temperatures in Cortina, Italy have risen by 6.4 degrees Fahrenheit since 1956, which is when they last hosted. As a result, event organizers have had to ship 3 million cubic yards of artificial snow.

Ironically, the creation and shipping of the snow creates a large carbon footprint which contributes to global warming.

The lack of snow is not the only consequence however, as temperatures that are too warm can make the snow not crisp and instead make it slushy and unsafe to use for the events that require snow and also can hinder the crews that work to smooth the slopes.

The planet warming is impacting a number of possible places they can host the winter Olympics. Of the original 93, only 52 would be viable by 2050. This is worrying as come in 40 years, there might not be many places to hold the Winter Olympics.