Before the storm

9 Jan 09

After some great touring weather and reliable alpine stability in the Korenge Dake area we have entered our next storm cycle. Some would say a little overdue, I disagree.

I went with new Hakuba local and regular touring friend, Eric, and Laurie from Finland. I had a great tour with Team Finland the previous day which I will post about later.

We went to Kita Hiyodori which has been skied quite a lot recently. With 20-30cm of new snow and some alternative routes down the steeper less direct terrain than the obvious gullies. At one stage we were certain we had avoided a small cliff in a narrow and short couloir... but ended up right on top of it.

A very fun day with two laps without ordeal. The storm has arrived today and I am stepping away from touring until stability improves- see my weather and snowpack diary post for the 10th.