Well, looking out at the sun and feeling the warmth it looks like it is going to be a hot one out there (relatively speaking of course), even after a cold start. We didn't see any snowfall last night in the region. Yesterday brought us a ton of sun which lasted almost all day. It was a great day to get out and see everything. It isn't often you can catch a full-on glimpse of Yotei, but it was visible all day.

Backcountry is pretty settled now because of the freeze-thaw. It will be an issue when we do get some snow. Looks like another great day to get up Yotei-zan or Shirabetsu-dake. Both will be great views from the top.

The forecast is looking really good. As of right now, it is saying Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are all going to be snow days with the potential of quite a strong low pressure. That could mean a decent snowfall if it stays cold enough, though whether it will or not is another matter. Woohoo! Let's keep those fingers crossed.

Grand Hirafu / Hanazono:
Top - 410cm
Bottom - 210cm

Niseko Village:
Top - 460cm
Bottom - 210cm

Annupuri:
Top - 470cm
Bottom - 220cm

Niseko Avalanche Report:

Niseko base 6am: -7C, no snowfall in the past 24 hours. Coastal data: NNW5m/s at Benkei cape, 0.6m waves and 1023hPa at Kamui cape. Moiwa 800m -10C, no snowdrifts developments. Annupuri peak: N9m/s -16.3C.
Snowfall transition: The wind remained calm and snowdrifts development is virtually non-existent. A cold air mass is flowing from the north making slight snowdrifts develop in south facing slopes above 800m. A notable Mar 1st layer is present in slopes under 800m.
Hazard evaluation: Avalanche triggered by slip-drops is to be considered in steep slopes above 1100m, however the general avalanche hazard is low. The surface’s re-crystallization due cold temperature is making the snow little easier to ski than yesterdays. However, old tracks remains and are frozen. Watch your speed and carefully remain in control.
Caution: This Information’s objective is to minimize not only avalanche accidents but also all kinds of incidents occurring in Niseko’s out of bounds area. Although self-responsibility is the basic premise in the backcountry, the resorts and the local community has established the Niseko Rules in hope to minimize accidents while maximizing and respecting the freedom of skiers and snowboarders to step outside the resort boundaries.
Gates: Peak gates will be open at 9:30. Better never pause at the bottom of the valleys; avalanches run through there.