Heavy snowfall is expected in central and eastern Japan from Sunday to Monday, especially in mountainous areas. Tokyo and its surrounding regions may also see snow, leading to possible traffic disruptions. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued warnings for icy roads, train delays, and difficult driving conditions. Authorities are advising residents to take precautions and prepare for possible travel disruptions.
Snowfall Expected to Affect Tokyo and Nearby Areas
Snowfall is a rare event in Tokyo, but this weekend, the city and nearby regions may experience significant snowfall. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, a low-pressure system moving eastward along Japan’s southern coast is expected to bring heavy snow to parts of central and eastern Japan from Sunday to Monday.
While snowfall will be heaviest in the mountainous regions, Tokyo’s 23 wards and other lower areas will also be affected. The agency has warned that roads could become icy, making it difficult for vehicles and pedestrians to move around safely.
Impact on Transportation
With snowfall increasing, transportation services in and around Tokyo are preparing for possible delays and cancellations. JR East, one of Japan’s major railway companies, has announced that some train lines may experience delays or even temporary cancellations due to snowy conditions. This could affect thousands of commuters and travelers in the Tokyo metropolitan area.
Additionally, the Metropolitan Expressway has urged drivers to take precautions while traveling. Authorities are recommending the use of snow tires to prevent accidents. Ice-covered roads can be extremely dangerous, especially for vehicles that are not equipped for winter driving.
Expected Snowfall in Different Areas
The Japan Meteorological Agency has provided specific snowfall predictions for different regions:
- Koshin region (Nagano and Yamanashi Prefectures): Up to 20 centimeters of snow
- Chichibu (Saitama Prefecture), Tama (Tokyo), and Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture): 10 centimeters
- Mountainous areas in northern Kanto: 5 centimeters
- Southern Kanto plain, including Tokyo’s 23 wards: 3 centimeters
- Northern Kanto plain: 1 centimeter
Over the following 24 hours, snowfall is expected to continue, with:
- 10 centimeters in northern Kanto mountains and Koshin
- 5 centimeters in Chichibu, Tama, and Hakone
- 3 centimeters in the northern Kanto plain
- 1 centimeter in the southern Kanto plain
Possible Disruptions to Daily Life
Snow and icy roads can cause many problems for people in Tokyo and nearby areas. While some residents may enjoy the rare sight of snow in the city, others will need to prepare for possible difficulties.
Commuters and Travelers
Since Tokyo has a large population and many daily commuters, even a small amount of snow can create problems. People who rely on public transport may need to check train schedules in advance and expect possible delays. Those who drive should be extra careful on the roads, especially early in the morning and late at night when ice can be more slippery.
Businesses and Schools
If snowfall becomes heavier than expected, some businesses may need to adjust their work hours, and schools might close for safety reasons. Many people in Japan are not used to dealing with heavy snow, so even a few centimeters can disrupt normal activities.
Safety Precautions for Residents
The Japan Meteorological Agency is advising residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the snowfall. Here are some safety tips:
- Avoid unnecessary travel – If you don’t need to go outside, it’s better to stay indoors.
- Wear proper winter clothing – Warm coats, gloves, and waterproof shoes can help you stay comfortable and safe.
- Use non-slip shoes – Walking on icy roads can be dangerous, so using shoes with good grip can reduce the risk of slipping.
- Drive carefully – If you must drive, ensure that your car has snow tires and drive slowly to avoid accidents.
- Check transportation updates – Before leaving home, check train and bus schedules to avoid delays.
- Stock up on essentials – In case the snow lasts longer than expected, it’s a good idea to keep extra food and supplies at home.
Comparisons to Past Snowfall in Tokyo
Tokyo does not experience heavy snowfall every year, but when it does, it often causes disruptions. In previous years, even 5 centimeters of snow caused delays in train services and accidents on icy roads. The current snowfall forecast is similar to past events where transportation systems faced challenges.
For example, in January 2018, Tokyo recorded 23 centimeters of snowfall, leading to massive train delays and over 700 car accidents. While the current forecast is not as extreme, authorities are still urging people to be cautious.
What Happens Next?
The Japan Meteorological Agency will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed. Residents and travelers should stay informed by checking weather reports and following official advisories.
If snowfall continues for a longer period, additional safety measures might be put in place, such as temporary road closures or limited public transport services. The government and local authorities are prepared to respond to any emergencies caused by the snow.
