Ski resort operators are rejoicing after a string of storms brought an early winter to the Sierra Nevada just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday period.

While they still need more snow to kick into full operation, officials are thankful that an abundant early snowfall allowed some to open early after a subpar snowpack last winter.

Among Lake Tahoe-area resorts already open for the season are Boreal, Heavenly, Kirkwood, Northstar and Squaw Valley. Mammoth Mountain, just east of Yosemite National Park, also has kicked off the new season.

Kirkwood reports 24 to 30 inches of new snow over the last 48 hours following another storm that dropped heavy snow last week.

Mt. Rose plans to open on Wednesday, Sierra-at-Tahoe on Thursday, and Alpine Meadows and Tahoe Donner on Dec. 7.