Niseko has most snowfall in five years

Niseko-based Alister Buckingham and SkiJapan.com’s Snow Reporter Rod White are both quite enthralled by the amount (and quality) of snowfalls that give this part of Hokkadio its reputation as a mecca for powder skiing and boarding.

Buckingam said:”It is definitely well ahead of the average. We’ve had more snowfall so far than we did until the start of February last year. We’ve officially had the most snowfall for this point in the season in the last five years.

“Just over the next few days were predicted to get a minimum of 50cm’s, and 77cm’s by the end of the week, which are very conservative figures. I honestly think we’ll smash through the 2014/15 season for December snowfall and head towards the record books. Only time will tell!”

Rod White said in his daily report this morning (that’s posted on SkiJapan.com’s website daily) “We haven't seen these type of big number back to back snowfalls in many years. 850cm of snow to date accumulation at mid to upper-mountain and 740cm at Hirafu base.

“Another 29-33cm of new from base to top for the 24hr period to 7 am where waist -to -chest deep bone dry Niseko Magic yesterday was the status in mid to upper mountain gullies and off groomed terrain This is as good as it gets folks.

“Upper lifts opened yesterday yet massive loading in our gated back and side country terrain still had patrol highly concerned. Fingers crossed today will see the gates open to the bliss that awaits.

“If so, equip yourself adequately with the tools and safety gear. Strong caution advised whenever stepping outside legal gate access or skinning backcountry. Extra-ordinary conditions like this can result in similar issues - Be smart - Living is good

“The outlook has periods of sunshine for today and tomorrow Sunday NYE. A handy and necessary opportunity to re-group, clear roofs of chronic amounts of snow and prepare for the next wave of fronts that the synoptic charts via the JMA have issued.”