A strong westerly storm has persisted above 800m and made some snowdrifts slabs of wind-broken particle to develop in leeward slopes. Cornices have also developed in leeward areas above 1000m. Maximum snowdrift depth has reached 100cm in some spots just below ridgeline.
Looking at the weather transition, the cornices and snowdrifts are yet to stabilize.
60cm surface slab avalanche are highly likely to occur in Kozan no sawa (Backbowl), Osawa, Mikaeri no sawa, Higashi-One and the south facing strictly off limits areas. Potential sliding layer is March 12-13th where a weak hoar layer has formed due to temperature difference in the snow accumulation.
The storm should calm down around 11am and the slabs would start to stabilize, however peak gates will be closed all day for the sake of all resort users. Do not duck ropes to step out of bounds.
Gate 1, 4, 5 and 6 are scheduled to open this afternoon. Follow the ski patrol’s instructions.
Most avalanche accidents happen during or just after storms.
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