Wilmington, NY, Dec 27, 2011 — Temperatures today in much of the North Country are expected to top forty degrees, with a chance of rain in some areas. If you hate shoveling snow or paying a big bill for your heating oil, this winter's mild weather is probably great news.

But for thousands of people who rely on snow for winter tourism, this year's lingering, autumn-like conditions have been painful. From Glens Falls to Malone, ski areas have been forced to delay their openings, or are operating with limited trails. Brian Mann has our story.