Aussie mother and three sons missing in central Japan skifield

An Australian mother and her three adult sons have been reported missing in a central Japanese skifield.

File photo Source: Dan Sherman

A mother and her three adult sons did not return from a popular skifield in Nozawa Onsen last night and a search party will be sent out this morning, according to reports.

The government has confirmed it is monitoring the situation and is in touch with local authorities.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is in contact with local authorities working to locate an Australian woman and her family reported as missing in Japan,” a spokesperson told SBS.

Local media has reported that the woman is in her 50s. 

Temperatures overnight were below -10°C with added wind chill plunging them even lower.

Moderate snow is expected to continue falling today after recent heavy snowfalls, with the temperature likely to peak at -5°C.

Skiing conditions have been ideal in recent days, with deep and fine snow.