The Sea of Japan coast is experiencing heavy snowfall due to a powerful cold front, causing major transportation disruptions, including canceled flights and rail services. Record snowfall amounts have been reported, along with unfortunate casualties from related accidents. The Japan Meteorological Agency warns of continued severe weather conditions as more snow is expected this weekend.
Heavy snowfall has significantly impacted the Sea of Japan coast, with the strongest cold front of the season causing disruptions to transportation. Rail services in central Japan, as well as air traffic, have been adversely affected, prompting warnings from the Japan Meteorological Agency about additional snowfall expected by the weekend.
Major airlines, including All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines, have canceled several flights due to the severe weather conditions. Flights impacted include routes connecting Tokyo with Tottori Prefecture and Shimane Prefecture with the Oki Islands.
In central Japan, cancellations of local train services occurred in Ishikawa and Gifu prefectures, including a specific express train on JR West’s Nanao Line, which experienced a brake malfunction exacerbated by frost. Shirakawa in Gifu Prefecture recorded an unprecedented 129 centimeters of snowfall within just 48 hours.
Additional snowfall was observed elsewhere, with 50 centimeters in Toyama in 12 hours, alongside measurements of 48 centimeters in Shirakawa and 45 centimeters in Jyoetsu, Niigata Prefecture. Concerns were raised in Kagoshima Prefecture, where light snow accumulation of 2 centimeters was reported.
Tragically, casualties have occurred during this hazardous weather, including an incident in Toyama Prefecture where a man fell from a forklift while clearing snow, sustaining serious injuries. A woman in Yamaguchi Prefecture lost her life after being struck by a tree that fell due to snow-compromised soil stability.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued severe warnings regarding unstable atmospheric conditions as cold air descends over eastern and northern Japan. This situation may lead to the development of cumulonimbus clouds in certain regions, resulting in exceptionally heavy snowfall on both the Sea of Japan coast and the typically drier Pacific side.
In summary, heavy snowfall along the Sea of Japan coast has led to significant transportation disruptions and tragic accidents. Major flights have been canceled, train services halted, and several regions have experienced record snowfall. As authorities issue warnings for continued adverse weather, the public must remain vigilant and take precautions. The ongoing effects of this winter storm underline the critical need for awareness during severe weather events.
Original Source: english.kyodonews.net
