Japan is experiencing its coldest spell of the season. A powerful blizzard and record snowfall have hit the country. As a result, roads are blocked, cars are stuck, and schools are closed. Hokkaido is the worst-affected region. Consequently, weather agencies have issued warnings. They also predict avalanches in the coming days.
Heavy Snowfall in Japan
According to Hokkaido officials, snowfall has reached record levels, especially in Obihiro and Kushiro. On Tuesday, Obihiro received 129 centimeters (four feet) of snow in just 12 hours. In fact, Weathernews reported that snowfall levels have not been this high since 1972.
Similarly, Shirakawa in Gifu prefecture got 129 centimeters of snow in 48 hours. The meteorological agency confirmed it as a record-breaking event.
Moreover, snow has piled up nearly a meter deep in Joetsu, Niigata prefecture, and Honbetsu, Hokkaido. Meanwhile, the cold air mass has pushed temperatures below -12°C in Shikoku and Kyushu. Snow is steadily covering grassy areas in Kagoshima city. Additionally, mountain roads have turned completely white.
Severe Disruptions Across Japan
Due to the heavy snowfall, residents are struggling to clear their cars. Many drivers have already called authorities for help. On TV, footage shows people working hard to remove snow and assist stranded drivers. Furthermore, train services have completely stopped in affected areas. Officials have also closed major highways and roads.
Flights have suffered major disruptions as well. Snow forced runway closures at Obihiro and Kushiro airports. Consequently, thousands of passengers were stranded. All Nippon Airways canceled 34 flights. Likewise, Japan Airlines canceled 29 flights, affecting 5,800 people.
In addition, more than 370 schools in Hokkaido canceled classes on Tuesday. Postal services and deliveries were also delayed across the region. Despite the chaos, no major injuries or damage have been reported. However, officials have advised people to keep shovels and warm clothes in their cars in case they get stuck.
Sapporo Snow Festival Continues Despite Blizzard
The Sapporo Snow Festival is still running. Fortunately, the bad weather has not stopped the event. Ironically, organizers had worried about warm weather in January. When they started making sculptures, snow was scarce. To solve the problem, they transported snow from nearby towns using 2,500 trucks.
This year’s festival features over 200 sculptures. Notably, highlights include a 12-meter replica of the old Hokkaido prefectural government building and a statue of baseball star Shohei Ohtani with his dog, Dekopin. Additionally, citizens created 80% of the sculptures.
What’s Causing the Heavy Snow?
The Japan Meteorological Agency has described this cold front as “the strongest in several years.” Currently, two low-pressure systems are sweeping across Japan. As a result, they are pulling cold air into the Sea of Japan. Therefore, the JMA has issued severe weather warnings. They predict up to 100 centimeters (3.2 feet) of snowfall in northwest Japan and 50 centimeters (1.6 feet) in Hokkaido.
For safety, the transport ministry has urged drivers to take precautions. Specifically, officials advise using winter tires, carrying snow chains, and keeping shovels and sand in vehicles.