Aussie Skier Dies Suddenly in Japan's Snowy Hokkaido

A 27-year-old Australian man, Michael "Micky" Hurst from Melbourne, has died in Japan's Hokkaido region following a sudden medical episode while skiing on Monday afternoon. He was skiing in backcountry terrain between the Niseko Moiwa and Niseko Annupuri resorts when he reportedly fell behind his group.

His companions discovered him unconscious around 3pm local time after searching for him. Other skiers were performing CPR when they arrived. Hurst was transported to a hospital but unfortunately passed away.

Early reports suggested a possible avalanche, but it is now believed he suffered a heart attack. This is the third reported death of an Australian in Japan this ski season. Previously, a 22-year-old snowboarder died after ski lift accident injuries, and a teenager succumbed to injuries from a course boundary rope entanglement in Hokkaido.

Japan is currently experiencing a significant snowfall season, with some resorts seeing the deepest snow in over a decade. This has boosted tourism in areas like Niseko and Hakuba but has also contributed to an increase in accidents. Hurst, who was working at a Niseko resort, is being remembered by family and friends for his kindness and sense of humor.