Hello from Niseko! We are getting some snow but unfortunately it is not too far from rain. It's a bit warmer here than it has been the past few days. At the present moment it is cloudy with a bit of wind. We are expecting some more snow and possible colder temperatures so keep an eye out for more powder to hit Niseko. At this point we aren't sure how much, but it looks like it has the potential to be nice light snow.

Yesterday we saw clouds with a bit of sun in the afternoon. It was foggy in the morning and visibility became better in the afternoon.

The backcountry is probably not worth going out today. It is a mixture of freezing rain and wind with heavy snow. I would recommend saving it for a nicer day! I hope everyone finds something to do on the "down" day today. Enjoy!

Grand Hirafu / Hanazono:
Top - 415cm
Bottom - 195cm

Niseko Village:
Top - 450cm
Bottom - 200cm

Annupuri:
Top - 480cm
Bottom - 200cm

Niseko Avalanche Report:

Niseko base 6am: -2C, no snowfall. Coastal data: SE3m/s at Benkei cape, 0.5m waves and 1002hPa at Kamui cape. Annupuri peak: SE5.8m/s, -10.5C. Annupuri 1000m: 480cm snowdepth.
Snowfall transition: A low-pressure system is moving up along the pacific side and moderate snowfall is forecasted to start in late morning. A cold airmass (-12C at 1500m) is present in higher altitude and a moderate snowfall will persist above 1100m altitude. A high-pressure area between two low-pressure systems is overlaying Hokkaido resulting in calm wind weather under 800m.
Hazard evaluation: The general avalanche risk is low, however the cornices have grown huge and are likely to collapse with a slight stimulation, and could trigger a slide as they fall.
Cracks are likely to open up as the season shifts to spring and are not visible from above. Be careful not to fall into them. Looking at this season’s snowfall transition, climax (ground) avalanches are likely to occur from 1100m altitude as soon as cracks starts to form. Caution is required in coordinate E6 Backbowl area, F5 Osawa area, G8-H8 Higashione area and E7 West face Goshiki area. It is strongly unrecommended to ski or rest in valley bottoms and always keep space between skiers when traversing avalanche terrains.
Gates: Peak gates are scheduled to open at 9:30am, however is subject to lift operation. Opening time may be delayed due to weather conditions. Please respect the ski patrol’s instructions. Outside the gates is not the ski resort anymore. Ducking ropes is strictly prohibited in Niseko. Have a safe day.