霧雨で湿った雪 大雪渓は滑落注意

Current conditions at Hakuba-dake summit are mist and rain, with a temperature of 2.6°C and a feels-like temperature of 0.3°C. Visibility is less than 1km, indicating persistent dense fog during any activity. The 99% humidity combined with mist significantly increases the risk of hypothermia as clothing can easily become wet. Be aware of the substantial temperature difference; the summit is 7.6°C colder than the base, which is at 10.2°C.

Precipitation is expected to gradually weaken through the afternoon and cease around 3 PM, but the wet snow conditions will persist. With a snow depth of 80cm, especially on Daisekkei, one of Japan's three great snow valleys, the surface will be extremely slippery due to the mist and wet snow. For the route from Sarukura to Hakubajiri and up to the summit, light crampons or chain spikes are essential gear. Watch out for potential post-holing on the snowfield.

The feels-like temperature will hover around 0°C throughout the day. Therefore, it is crucial to wear appropriate cold weather gear, including waterproof and breathable shell jacket and pants, moisture-wicking base layers, and mid-layers such as fleece or a light down jacket. Gusts are around 6.2m/s during the day, but they could strengthen to 9.9m/s at night, so consider your activity timing.

The forecast indicates a shift to partly cloudy conditions in the afternoon, with precipitation ceasing by night. However, temperatures are projected to drop to -0.5°C at night. This could lead to freezing of the wet snow surfaces and rocky sections, making them even more treacherous.