Japan, South Korea: Adverse winter weather forecast through at least Jan. 10

Event

Heavy snowfall, rough seas, and strong winds associated with a storm system are forecast across portions of western and northern Japan and South Korea through at least Jan. 10.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued red high wave warnings for Shimane, Tottori, Hyogo, Kyoto, Fukui, Ishikawa, Niigata, Yamagata, Akita, Aomori, Oshima, and Hiyama Chiho prefectures. Red-level heavy snowfall warnings are in effect for Tottori, Hyogo, Shiga, Gifu, Ishikawa, Toyama, Nagano, Niigata, Fukushima, Yamagata, Miyagi, Akita, Iwate, Aomori, Oshima, and Hiyama Chiho prefectures. Yellow advisories are in effect for strong winds, heavy snow, high waves, low temperatures, and avalanches across the affected area.

Additionally, the Korean Meteorological Administration has issued heavy snowfall warnings Yeonggwang, Gochang, Buan, Ulleungdo Dokdo, Jeju-do mountainous territory, Jeju-do north, and Jeju-do east areas. Heavy snowfall advisories have been issued for Naju, Hwasun, Jangheung, Gangjin, Haenam, Yeongam, Muan, Hampyeong, Mokpo, Sinan (Heuksan-myeon) exemption), Jindo, Heuksando Hongdo, Jeju-do west, Jeju-do south, Seocheon, Gwangju, Damyang, Jangseong, Gunsan, Gimje, and Jeongeup areas. Strong wind warnings are in effect for Heuksando Hongdo and Ulleungdo Dokdo areas. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the winter storm transits the region over the coming days. In addition to the wintry precipitation, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout the affected area.

Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area over the coming days. Further traffic and commercial trucking delays are likely along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of a highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. As of 1700 JST, multiple highways are closed due to heavy snowfall and strong winds, including Kyushu, Higashi Kyushu, Chugoku, Matsue, Seto Chuo, Hokuriku, Nihonkai Tohoku, and Ban-etsu expressways, as well as Tokyo Bay Aqua Line. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports. As of 1100 KST, 72 flights were canceled across fourteen airports, including Gimpo International Airport (GMP) and Jeju International Airport (CJU).

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area through at least Jan. 10. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Japan Meteorological Agency
Korea Meteorological Administration