A Japan winter storm is forecast to deliver record snowfall across multiple regions, including up to 5 cm in central Tokyo, prompting widespread travel disruption and safety warnings.
Summary: A powerful Japan winter storm will deliver heavy snow across much of the country this weekend, with central Tokyo expecting up to 5 cm in 24 hours. Widespread transport disruptions, including cancelled trains and possible flight delays, are anticipated as authorities issue warnings through February 9.
A powerful winter system is moving across Japan this weekend, and the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned that heavy snow will affect large parts of the country through February 9. This Japan winter storm is expected to produce notable accumulation even in areas that rarely see snow, including central Tokyo, where up to 5 cm may fall within 24 hours.
Storm overview and timing
An intense cold front sweeping the archipelago will bring heavy snowfall and strong winds to regions from northern Honshu down to western Japan. The JMA has issued warnings as the system is forecast to remain active through February 9, with the heaviest accumulations along the Sea of Japan and inland areas.
Snowfall forecasts by region
- Central Tokyo (23 wards): Up to 5 cm within 24 hours from 6 p.m. on February 7
- Tama area (west of central Tokyo): 5 cm to 10 cm in the same 24-hour period
- Kanto-Koshin region: Up to 30 cm
- Kinki region: Up to 70 cm
- Shikoku: Up to 25 cm
- Northern Kyushu: Up to 40 cm
- Hokkaido and Tohoku: Up to 50 cm
- Hokuriku: Up to 80 cm
- Tokai: Up to 40 cm
- Chugoku: Up to 70 cm (including Kyoto, Hyogo, Tottori, Shimane and Okayama with up to 70 cm)
The forecast highlights that areas used to heavy snow will again face severe accumulation, while regions less accustomed to winter conditions—such as parts of Kanto and Kinki—could see unusually high totals that strain local services.
Transport disruptions and safety warnings
The approaching storm has already affected transport operations. East Japan Railway Co. announced the cancellation of 21 train services on February 7, including limited express services such as the Azusa and Kaiji on the Chuo Line, citing passenger safety amid the forecast conditions.
Authorities warn that the worsening conditions on February 8 could trigger further delays and cancellations across rail and air networks. Strong winds are expected to accompany the snowfall, increasing the risk of hazardous travel, snow accumulation on roofs, and interruptions to road transport.
Cities less accustomed to snow will feel the effects
Snow in central Tokyo is relatively rare, so even modest accumulations can cause outsized disruption for commuters and services. The Tama area west of the capital is expected to be particularly affected. Municipal services have been urged to prepare for snow removal and to manage public safety as conditions develop.
Broader impacts and preparedness
The storm arrives amid the Lower House election period, and officials say they are working to ensure voting processes and essential services remain operational. Local authorities have mobilised to address snow clearance and to keep transport and infrastructure functioning where possible.
- Check latest advisories from the Japan Meteorological Agency and local authorities
- Confirm train and flight schedules before travelling and expect delays
- Allow extra time for journeys and consider postponing non-essential travel
- Be cautious of snow on roofs and strong winds if you are in affected areas
Why this matters: For travellers and residents, the storm underscores the need to follow official guidance and to plan for service interruptions. Unfamiliar snow conditions in urban areas can rapidly disrupt daily life, so staying informed and flexible will reduce risk and inconvenience.
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