Many residents of the Lochaber area will be, quite understandably, somewhat relieved that the region has seen little in the way of snow or harsh winter weather conditions.
It is, however, a troubling development for the local tourism sector, which has been suffering from a downturn in the number of visitors.
As we report today, the Nevis Range managed to open for just one day in January although the artificial slope is open at the moment for beginner lessons.