Northern Japan is facing one of the heaviest snowstorms in recent historyA cold front has caused record snowfall in several areas of the country, seriously affecting the mobility and daily life of thousands of citizens. Authorities have issued weather alerts for several prefectures, and snowfall has caused the closure of schools and the collapse of infrastructure.
The city of Obihiro, on the island of Hokkaido, has been one of the hardest hit., with an accumulation of snow exceeding 1,2 metres in just 12 hours. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), the combination of a cold air mass and a low pressure system was responsible for the extreme weather phenomenon.
Impact on infrastructure and education
The consequences of the storm have been noticeable in various key infrastructures in the country.. More than 379 educational institutions have suspended their activities, including primary schools, secondary schools and kindergartens. In Obihiro, a school gymnasium suffered a collapsed roof due to the weight of the snow, although fortunately there were no injuries as the centre was closed.
In addition, multiple cases have been recorded power outages, with about 790 homes affected in different regions. In Yamaguchi Prefecture, A 60-year-old woman lost her life after being hit by a tree that collapsed under the weight of the snow. Several traffic accidents have also been reported due to the icy roads.
Collapsed cities and transportation restrictions
Transport has been one of the hardest hit sectors due to the weather situation. The Hokuriku Expressway and National Route 8 have been closed in critical sections to avoid blockages due to stranded vehicles. In Toyama Prefecture, more than 30 cars were stranded, while in Gifu there were recorded More than 80 road accidents in a single day due to frozen roads.
As for air traffic, Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) had to cancel more than 130 flights, affecting thousands of passengers at major airports including Haneda, Kushiro and New Chitose.
Forecasts and recommendations of the authorities
Weather forecasts indicate that Snowfall will continue for several more days, with accumulations that could reach up to one meter in thickness in various regions such as Tohoku, Hokuriku and Niigata. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of the risk of blizzards, high waves and power outages.
Authorities have urged the population to avoid unnecessary travel and take extra precautions, preparing food, blankets and emergency supplies. Drivers are also advised to use winter tires and carry supplies in their vehicles in case of possible roadblocks.
With weather conditions expected to remain unstable for at least another week, Japan is on high alert to minimize damage and ensure to maximise security and your enjoyment. of its citizens.