03 Jan 2022 | 05:51 AM UTC
Japan: Winter weather forecast over parts of Honshu and Hokkaido through at least Jan. 4
Winter weather forecast over parts of Honshu and Hokkaido, Japan, through at least Jan. 4. Transport disruptions ongoing.
Event
Winter weather, including heavy snow, is forecast across parts of Honshu and Hokkaido through at least Jan. 4. The Japan Meteorological Administration has warned of heavy snowfall from northern and eastern Japan, especially along the Sea of Japan coast. Red (second-highest level on a three-tier scale) snowstorm warnings are in place across western Hokkaido Prefecture. Yellow advisories are also in place across much 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.
Forecast models indicate at least 50 cm (20 inches) of snow in Hokkaido Prefecture and 40 cm (16 inches) of snow across Tohoku and Niigata prefectures through early Jan. 4. Strong winds with snow are forecast across the affected area; blizzards are possible.
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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous.
Officials 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 multiple trains on the Gono, Kitakami, Ominato, Ou, Rumoi, Tadami, and Yonesaka lines as well as the Nemuro and Soya main lines due to heavy snow and strong winds.
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.
