A Hong Kong-based man sustained a serious knee injury requiring 12 stitches after falling at the newly opened Huafa Ice and Snow World in Shenzhen, allegedly due to insufficient snow coverage.
Lai, a finance professional residing in Hong Kong, was skiing at the resort on September 30, its second day of trial operation. After nearly five hours of skiing, he transitioned from intermediate to advanced slopes when his left ski suddenly caught, causing him to fall forward and separate from both skis.
Security footage review showed his left knee struck the ski binding during the fall. Photos revealed his snow pants torn near the knee with significant tissue damage described as "the entire knee flesh torn open."
Lai noted visible black patches on the slopes where the underlying surface showed through, questioning whether the snow depth met China's regulated minimum of 15 centimeters for compacted snow. Other visitors similarly reported seeing the dark base layer through the snow surface.
The Peking University Shenzhen Hospital diagnosed Lai with severe contusions reaching muscle layer, partial skin avulsion, and exposed tendons. He continues cross-border medical visits for dressing changes while seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost income from the resort.
