13 Dec 2021 | 11:00 AM UTC
Japan: Severe weather forecast over northern and central regions through at least Dec. 14
Severe weather forecast over northern and central Japan through at least Dec. 14. Train disruptions ongoing.
Event
Strong winds, large waves, and snow are forecast for northern and central regions through at least Dec. 14. A low-pressure system is tracking northeastward Dec. 13, bringing very strong winds and snow across northern Japan as well as the Hokuriku region. The Japan Meteorological Administration has issued the following warnings:
Red warnings for large waves: Western Akita, western Aomori, southern and northeastern Hokkaido, northern Ishikawa, western and northern Niigata, and western Yamagata prefectures.
Red warnings for snowstorms and storms: southern Hokkaido Prefecture.
Yellow gale, snow, and large waves advisories: the rest of the affected area.
Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories in the coming days; officials may issue evacuation orders if weather conditions persist or worsen.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides remain possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Sea of Japan and the North Pacific Ocean if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Authorities have suspended or delayed trains on the Nemuro and Uetsu main lines as well as the Ominato and Joban lines.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
