Heavy snow at Furano

Snow in the face for those who went up the mountain for a ski this morning.

My friends are still up there and loving it. Visibility turning to poor now as the winds increase. Was still earlier but now a ground blizzard in Furano Town so undoubtedly getting windy on the resort.

A good half metre of fresh down in Kitanomine village so there would be close to a metre of snow to play in at the top of the resort. At least thigh deep.

Just a reminder that if you like the side country, backcountry, or cross-country skiing, always be sensible. Hire a guide unless you really know the terrain and weather conditions and by know, I mean you've been out with guides in the area before and you are prepared for all conditions.

Not to be heavy, but in Central Hokkaido people have died near the piste simply because they saw great snow, headed out of bounds, then came unstuck.

With the deepest respect to her friends and family, the person I am thinking of was at a resort in our region. She did not venture far off piste but came off her snowboard, could not be seen, could not be heard, and because our snow is so light and dry, could not climb back on her board. She perished.

Her tragedy can serve to remind us all that what looks beautiful and benign (for what is more beautiful than soft, white snow?) can be treacherous. Like the blue sea or the gurgling river or a sunlit expanse of terrain.

But we must respect nature always. She is beautiful and giving but she is a strength we cannot fathom.

Be careful folks and have a great ski or board today. My family is sitting by the fire heading out for the occasional sled in the yard today, but our friends are loving the mountain. If the snow lets up, I am taking the young ones for a night ski tonight - the Kitanomine Zone is now fully open, night skiing included, wee hoo!

Please take care.

Ps

The other half of yesterday's story, the petite American woman who experienced neck-deep snow at the top of the Kitanomine Gondola, is that I did the very same thing!

The first time I skied Furano I did a turn or maybe two and went over, spending the better part of 15 minutes rolling around on my back trying to get vertical.

And I have loved Furano ever since. Hope I see her here again.