TOKYO — Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido is experiencing an unprecedented level of snowfall, leading to widespread disruption of transportation, airport operations, and delivery services as of Tuesday.
The local government reported that the eastern parts of the island, particularly Obihiro and Kushiro, saw the highest accumulation of snow, prompting city offices to handle numerous requests from stranded drivers whose vehicles became immobilized in the heavy snow.
Despite the severe weather, the city of Sapporo, which is host to a well-known winter festival, managed to avoid major disruptions.
News broadcasts captured scenes of residents shoveling snow and assisting those whose cars had become trapped, although no significant injuries or damages have been noted thus far.
Earlier on Tuesday, Obihiro registered a record snowfall measurement of 129 centimeters (approximately 4 feet).
The Japan Meteorological Agency explained that two robust low-pressure systems are currently affecting both sides of the Japanese archipelago, bringing in frigid air and resulting in heavy snow.
Forecasts predict an additional accumulation of up to 100 centimeters (around 3.2 feet) in northwestern Japan, alongside another 50 centimeters (about 1.6 feet) expected in Hokkaido over the forthcoming 24 hours leading up to Wednesday evening.
As a result of the extreme weather, several highways and main roads were closed, and services on trains in the impacted areas were temporarily halted.
Heavy snowfall forced the closure of runways at Obihiro and Kushiro airports, leading to the cancellation of numerous flights in and out of Hokkaido, severely affecting travel plans for thousands.
Additionally, about 370 schools in the prefecture cancelled classes on Tuesday.
The snow also prompted the temporary shutdown of post offices and other distribution services, causing delays in deliveries both within Hokkaido and to other regions across Japan.
In response to the inclement weather, Hokkaido officials have advised both residents and visitors to keep shovels and warm clothing in their vehicles to prepare for any potential vehicle stalls in the heavy snowfall.
