December 28th, 2016 (Snow starting this morning)

Hi, guys it is Paul here just letting you all know that I will begin forecasting January 1st  for ​Hokkaido. I will be focusing on the major ski areas along with doing my best to give you a heads up on which resorts to avoid due to inclement weather. Since I was putting together my sources and getting prepped I decided to give a little preview for the Niseko region.

Snow looks to start again early this morning with the heavier snow moving into Niseko around breakfast. By noon the worst should be over, with some decent new powder to enjoy. Kiroro could pick up an additional 15-30cm (6-12") with western facing slopes picking up the highest amounts.

It should be a nice morning to sleep in if you are staying in Niseko propper, being in the shadow of Niseko Annupuri will help limit the snow totals to 4-8cm (1-3"), with the highest amounts near Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu. The slopes should pick up an additional 8-10cm (3-4") near the base increasing to upwards of 20cm (8") at the upper reaches. Similarly, Mt Yoti should pick up 20-25 cm (8-10") near the summit.

That is just a little peak at the forecasting now. Starting January 1st I will be including additional information, such as wind and temperatures, and covering other regions such as Kamui Ski Links, Sahoro, and other popular slopes on Hokkaido. If anyone has snow reports, comments, or questions please feel free to ask and I will get them answered for you. Have a great day and check back on the 1st for customized ski and snowboard weather forecasts.

​Paul Carlone

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