Asia Weekly Roundup #245

Gassan Ski Area Closes Early for Major Lift Maintenance

• The resort warned skiers of rocks and foliage appearing from the rapidly melting snow before the early closure.
• Japan's temperatures are expected to rise to between +10 to +20°C, with occasional rain showers forecasted.

Japan Report

Japan’s Gassan ski area closed a month earlier than usual at the weekend, announcing last Sunday as its final day after a two-month operation. The resort had seen its usual rapid thaw and had warned last week of rocks and foliage appearing from below the melting snow and of the need for caution. However, the early closure is due to plans for a major lift maintenance exercise, planned for several weeks ahead of the start of the summer season rather than the usual few days.

Japan Forecast

Temperatures have generally been in the +10 to +20°C range over the last week, and ever-warmer temperatures with occasional rain showers are in the forecast for the week ahead too.