ニセコひらふ

Niseko Hirafu summit area will experience temperatures ranging from 1.6℃ to 4.1℃ today, with intermittent light drizzle. Wind speeds will be between 5m/s and 7m/s, with gusts reaching up to 20m/s at times, making the perceived temperature consistently below freezing, around -5℃. There is approximately a 6℃ temperature difference between the summit and the base, meaning conditions will feel significantly harsher at higher elevations. With no snowpack, the ground will be wet and muddy due to the drizzle.

Particularly, daytime gusts of 20m/s pose a risk of losing balance when moving on the upper sections of the Hirafu ski slopes or near the sidecountry gates adjacent to the ridgeline. Although visibility is good, prolonged exposure on the ridge should be avoided due to the persistent strong winds and drizzle. The risk of hypothermia is elevated, making appropriate layering essential.

For layering, wear a quick-drying synthetic or wool base layer, a fleece or thin synthetic insulation for mid-layer warmth, and a waterproof-breathable hardshell jacket and pants as an outer layer. Waterproof hiking boots are also mandatory. Crampons and microspikes are not necessary. While the risk of lightning is low, severe vigilance against hypothermia due to rain and wind is crucial.

Light drizzle will continue into the evening and night, with temperatures remaining largely unchanged. Winds will gradually diminish, but moving in wet conditions will deplete energy and maintain the risk of hypothermia. Avoid pushing limits and consider an early return.