Heavy Snow Batters Northern and Western Japan, Officials Urge Caution

Published Jan. 30 | Japan Hub

A powerful winter pressure system combined with an intense cold air mass is bringing significant snowfall to large parts of northern and western Japan, particularly along the Sea of Japan coast. In several areas, snow accumulation has already exceeded more than double the seasonal average.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), heavy snow continued to fall on Friday morning. In just six hours leading up to 11 a.m., approximately 10 centimeters of snow accumulated in parts of northern Tohoku and the Kinki region.

By late Friday morning, snow totals had reached striking levels:

• 279 cm in the Sumon district of Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture
• 164 cm in Aomori City
• 146 cm in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture
• 82 cm in Sapporo City

The winter pressure pattern is expected to gradually ease from western Japan, but forecasters warn that snowfall may intensify further in areas stretching from the Tohoku region to Niigata Prefecture.

Forecast for the Next 24 Hours

The JMA predicts additional heavy snowfall through Saturday morning:

• Up to 70 cm in Niigata Prefecture
• Up to 50 cm across the Tohoku region
• Up to 40 cm in the Hokuriku and Kinki regions

Travel Disruptions and Safety Concerns

Authorities are urging residents to remain alert for:

• Traffic delays and road closures due to snow and icy conditions
• Avalanches in mountainous areas
• Power outages caused by snow accumulating on power lines and trees
• Snow sliding from rooftops

Multiple accidents have already been reported during snow removal efforts. Officials are advising people to take extra precautions when clearing snow, including:

• Using safety ropes
• Wearing helmets
• Performing warm-up exercises beforehand
• Working alongside others rather than alone

A Severe Winter Reminder

While Japan’s snow season draws winter sports enthusiasts from around the world, this latest cold surge serves as a reminder of the risks that accompany heavy snowfall. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and encourage residents to follow local advisories closely.

Japan’s winter landscapes may be breathtaking — but safety remains the top priority.