Mpls. Still Waiting On Colder Weather To Open Rinks; Many Ski Hills Still Closed

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Temperatures in Minnesota have begun to fall to winter-like levels, but ice rinks will remain closed in Minneapolis for a least a while longer.

On Thursday, the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board (MPRB) announced crews are waiting for acceptable below-freezing weather conditions before they begin prepping 47 ice rinks at 22 parks citywide.

It takes a minimum of 10 consecutive days with below-freezing temperatures for ice to establish properly, according to the MPRB.

The MPRB says rinks will unlikely be open in time for Minneapolis Public School's winter break next week. Adult broomball league start dates are being rescheduled a week later, Dec. 27.

Meanwhile, many ski hills in Minnesota are also closed, including Welch Village and Como Park Ski Center.

Afton Alps and Welch Village are expected to reopen on Friday. Buck Hill is expected to open Saturday.

Como Park Ski Center isn't expected to reopen until Jan. 2, 2015, weather permitting.