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Blizzard Disrupts Northern Japan as Warnings Extend Through Jan. 15

Japan's earthquake panel also raised the 30-year risk of a major Nemuro-oki event to about 90%.

Overview

  • The Japan Meteorological Agency warned of violent snow, powerful winds and high waves in northern Japan and Hokuriku through Thursday, citing a rapidly deepening low-pressure system.
  • Forecasts called for maximum sustained winds up to 23 m/s in Hokkaido with gusts to 35 m/s, and wave heights of 5–6 meters across northern seas.
  • JR Hokkaido suspended about 90 train services, and roughly 900 people spent the night inside New Chitose Airport after earlier flight cancellations.
  • The Sapporo District Meteorological Observatory said winds would strengthen into early Thursday in parts of northern Ishikari and urged continued caution.
  • The Government’s Earthquake Research Committee raised the 30-year probability of a magnitude 7.8–8.5 Nemuro-oki earthquake from about 80% to about 90%.