Biggest dump so far this year tonight

in Jan 18, 2014
Yuto hacks the fresh japow.

Yuto hacks the fresh japow.

Base up top: 240 cm    Temp Top; -8 Degrees

Base at bottom; 130 cm

New Snow since close: 5-15 cm

Weather; Mostly sunny

 

We have a nice clear morning here in Nozawa Onsen. Mostly sunny with the occasional low lying clouds in the valleys leading to some great views of the surrounding alps. Crowd levels are not too bad for a weekend either.

Since close of lifts we have had 5cm fall at the top and the bottom of the mountain, with 10-15cm falling mid mountain. This indicates windblown conditions so the will be some quality deep stashes in the more sheltered locations. Even with the sun temperatures are cold, well into the negatives across the board and are set to stay that way all day, with snow showers building into the afternoon.

Yesterday was also a good day for skiing. Extremely uncrowded conditions meant that many areas were quite untracked. Again the snow was windblown so certain sheltered areas had some nice dry and deep stashes, but other more exposed areas had a prominent crust layer underneath. The groomers were nice as always.

Those who follow the snow forecast have great reason for excitement today. Over the past few days we have seen a significant upgrades to snowfalls totals forecast for tonight, with yesterday seeing the most significant upgrade so far. Tonight its predicted that heavy snow showers will accumulate to substantial levels. Based on the predictions 40cm overnight is not out of the question, possibly more. After the initial bout of falls tonight, light to moderate falls should continue all tomorrow.

Conditions should clear briefly on Monday morning before further moderate snow showers move through Tuesday, continuing into Wednesday. Thursday is looking like it will be clear at this stage.

With all the upcoming snow there is no better opportunity to capture yourself skiing in the deep japow. We offer professional action photographic/guiding services for skiers of all levels. Families, or those seeking the steep and deep. Drop into Lodge Nagano or Villa Nozawa to make a booking. 8000 yen per hour or 13 000 for two hours per group.

Waiting to drop.

Waiting to drop.