Disruption until weekend: Record snowfall over northern Japan

Disruption until weekend
Record snowfall over northern Japan

Record-breaking amounts of snow has fallen over parts of Japan in recent days, in some areas, up to 396 cm.

A low-pressure system intensified over the Sea of Japan before reaching Hokkaido, and parts of Honshu. Two of Japan's northern islands.

The result of up to 396 cm of snow at Sukayu Onsen, in Aomori, breaking several all-time records in 12 hours including 129 cm of snow in Obihiro on Friday, January 31st, a national record for a station at 35 m elevation.

These intense wintry conditions have resulted in a number of stranded drivers calling emergency services for help after attempting to travel.

Roads are closed, trains are not running, and around 360 schools were closed on Tuesday across Hokkaido.

Snow is expected to continue falling across the region into the weekend at least. Check the WeatherRadar to see for yourself.

Snowdrop season: First signs of spring

Weather & Radar editorial team

More on the topic

Monday 23 March 2026

World Meteorological Day

Monitor today, protect tomorrow

UK and Ireland temperature map dated Thu 26.03 showing widespread low values around −1 to 2 °C, with colder air across Scotland and a blue thermometer icon indicating chilly conditions.

Wednesday 25 March 2026

Back to freezing

Wintry feel to Thursday morning

Split image showing a rainfall anomaly map with wetter-than-average conditions over the UK on the left, and a reservoir with very low water levels and exposed banks on the right.

Tuesday 24 March 2026

Rainy winter help

England is officially drought-free

All weather news

This might also interest you

Split image showing aerial flooding in a town with muddy water covering roads on the left, and a rural road on the right blocked by heavy snowfall with vans stopped and a person walking in snow.

Tuesday 27 January 2026

Storm Chandra

Flooding, gales, and heavy snow

Weather map of the UK and Ireland showing scattered showers with cloudy patches across much of the region, especially around western and northern areas. Sunshine symbols appear over London, Cardiff, and parts of southern England, while temperatures range from 17°C to 18°C in most places. Areas of heavier rain are visible over the Atlantic to the west.

Friday 29 August 2025

Breakfast brief

Unsettled conditions into the weekend

Split weather map showing UK wind speeds in orange-red shades up to 40 mph on the left and warning levels in green-yellow on the right, with a central wind warning sign.

Wednesday 22 October 2025

Warnings active

Storm Benjamin impacts the UK

All articles

Disruption until weekend: Record snowfall over northern Japan

Disruption until weekendRecord snowfall over northern Japan

Disruption until weekend
Record snowfall over northern Japan