It is presently snowing big fat snowflakes here in Hakuba. The snow just started around 8AM this morning and is forecasted to continue through the day, slowing down in the evening. Yesterday the high alpine above 1800m was in the sunshine all day while the slower slopes remained in the clouds all day. An unusual weather pattern for Hakuba, but the inversion was very cool for those up in the high alpine.
Current resort conditions are packed and chopped powder, hard packed and groomed. We have seen a approximate 50cm settlement in the snowpack since the last big storm, so coverage of trees rocks and branches is still an issue. Off piste lower sections can still be pretty gnarly and be ready for some bush bashing!
We are expecting greater snowfalls later this week and hopefully a nice cold snap that stays to keep the powder that comes dry. Happy sliding!
Present avalanche conditions:
High (in the alpine)
Considerable (in the tree line)
Considerable (below tree line)
High alpine has changed from considerable to high. Expect a melt freeze crust on south facing aspects and significant wind loading on north aspects. Surface hoar observed on all aspects above 1700m, this may become an issue as we see accumulation on top of this layer.