Is this Normal? Niseko weather Patterns

Looking across the valley and seeing the clouds covering the top of Yotei and the snowline at about 600m on Friday and now snow on the peaks for a few week you maybe wondering if this is normal for the resort not to open on time?

To answer the question, yes it is normal and if you ask locals who have been here for a while they will tell early season is hit and miss sometimes. Niseko's weather pattern relies on the cold Seberian Moonsoon (seasonal winds) and this time of year there is always a bit of rain in the mix, just think, this happens everywhere doesn't it? Autumn storms bringing a mix of snow, sleek and rain [yuki, mizore, ame]

So with that in mind it was time for a bit of check and a drive up to Goshiki Onsen which lies on the other side of the peak from Hirafu Village. Driving up the road past Yuki ChiChibu Onsen and Chisennuupri Ski Resort (now closed) there was light rain on the windshield, just past here though the rain turned to light snow and once at Goshiki which is at about 600m it was snowing and snow coverage and snowbase looking good, 30cm and over . With slightly warmer temperates mid week we can possibly see a little of this snow melt (see previous post) but would say most of it will remain.

Upper moutain trails can't be looking to bad and with snow in the forcast grand Hirafu's re-scheduled opening day should go ahead (our guess). Niseko Annupuri will make an annoucement shorlty but at time of posting this information was not available.

Rusutsu opened yesterady day and with snow in the forecast later this week after a few warm days we would guess that the upper slopes of the mountain should be good to go, but off piste still bamboo sasa will be present.

With bad news in tateyama, check our facebook page this morning , stay safe out there.