30 Nov 2022 | 10:44 AM UTC
Japan: Adverse winter weather forecast across much of Hokkaido Prefecture through at least Dec. 2
Heavy snowfall and strong winds forecast across Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan, through at least Dec. 2. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Heavy snowfall and strong winds are forecast across much of Hokkaido Prefecture through at least Dec. 2. Strong winds will also lead to rough seas in the waters surrounding Hokkaido. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds will also likely lead to hazardous travel conditions due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
As of Nov. 30, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued the following weather warnings across Hokkaido:
Red snowstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Ishikari and Rumoi subprefectures.
Yellow snowstorm warnings: Hiyama, Oshima, Shiribeshi, and Soya subprefectures.
Yellow heavy snow warnings: Ishikari, Kamikawa, Rumoi, Shiribeshi, and Sorachi subprefectures.
Yellow storm/gale warnings: Abashiri, Hidaka, Iburi, Kushiro, Mombetsu, Nemuro, and Tokachi subprefectures.
Yellow high wave warnings: Abashiri, Hidaka, Hiyama, Ishikari, Kushiro, Nemuro, Oshima, Rumoi, Shiribeshi, Soya, and Tokachi subprefectures.
Yellow dense fog warnings: Kushiro and Nemuro subprefectures.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the storm transits the region over the coming hours.
In addition to heavy snowfall, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause additional ground and air transport disruptions across parts of Hokkadio over the coming days. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible 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. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area.
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. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
