Japan: Adverse winter weather conditions forecast across most of the country through at least Jan. 10

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across most of Japan through at least Jan. 10. As of Jan. 7, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued a weather bulletin warning that a low-pressure system will bring high waves to eastern and western regions along the Sea of Japan coast through Jan. 9 and heavy snowfall and strong winds across northern and western regions through around Jan. 10. Snowfall accumulations of 20-70 cm (8-28 inches) are forecast across parts of Chugoku, Hokuriku, Northern Kyushu, Shikoku, Tohoku, and Tokai regions over the coming days. Winds gusting up to 126 kph (78 mph) are possible in places and waves of up to 6 meters (20 feet) are expected along the Sea of Japan coast. Hazardous travel conditions are likely in northern and western regions due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of Jan. 7, the JMA has issued the following weather warnings across the country:

• Red strong wind warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Iki and Tsushima islands in Nagasaki Prefecture.

• Red high wave warnings: Parts of Fukui, Hyogo, Ishikawa, Kanagawa, and Kyoto prefectures

• Yellow weather warnings for various phenomena: Across much of the rest of the country.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in affected areas over the coming days. Further traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are likely to continue on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will probably close stretches of motorway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles and power lines throughout the affected area.