TOKYO, Feb 23 (NNN-NHK) – A powerful cold air mass has brought heavy snowfall across Japan, particularly on the Sea of Japan side, with some areas reporting snow accumulation significantly above the seasonal average.
Ishikawa Prefecture experienced its heaviest snowfall on record yesterday, with Wajima City recording 27 cm of snow in just six hours, matching the previous record set in Dec, 2023.
Snow accumulation has also reached extreme levels in other areas, including 3.69 metres in Tsunan, Niigata Prefecture, and 3.23 metres in Hijiori, Yamagata Prefecture.
The winter pressure pattern is expected to persist, leading to continued heavy snowfall. By the evening today, Niigata Prefecture is forecasted to receive up to 60 cm of snow, while the Tohoku, Hokuriku, and Kinki regions may see snow up to 50 cm, 40 cm, and 30 cm, respectively.
The unusual snow levels are also expected to impact typically less affected areas such as central Kinki and Shikoku.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that, snowfall will continue intermittently through Monday, urging caution over potential transportation disruptions and avalanches.– NNN-NHK
