Snow report Niseko, 01/21/2018

Snow condition

Snow has been pretty awesome. We have received at least 10cm per 24 hours for the past week, with multiple days more than 20cm. Conditions in resort have been soft and fluffy, with fewer and fewer tracks felt as the week has progressed. Winds up high have kept upper mountain closed, though the skiing in the trees has been fantastic. The touring has been an experience. While the trail breaking has been deep and laborious, the turns earned have been deep and well worth it.

Snow quality

Snow density has been consistently 10% water or less, generally around 7%, so it is very light and skis nicely.

With the consistent snowfall, the avalanche situation has remained rather predictable. Light winds trending from the southwest have created windloaded pockets of slab that have potential to move near ridgelines and at or above treeline. Generally speaking though, the avalanche risk has been considerable or moderate.

Overall impression

Despite consistent snowfall, the sun has come out briefly for several days, and temperatures have stayed cold. Some bigger missions up Yotei, and long days touring other large peaks in the area have been possible. It seems the trend is for this weather to continue into the start of February, so life will continue to be good.