Overview
- The Japan Meteorological Agency says a rapidly developing low over the Sea of Okhotsk is moving northeast and triggering severe winter conditions.
- Hokuriku faces the worst conditions on Jan. 14, with northern Japan, including Hokkaido and Tohoku, most affected through Jan. 15.
- Forecast maximum winds for Jan. 14 are 23 m/s in Hokkaido with 35 m/s gusts and 20 m/s in Tohoku and Hokuriku with 30 m/s gusts.
- On Jan. 15, Hokkaido winds are forecast to peak near 18 m/s with gusts around 30 m/s.
- Waves are projected to reach about 5 meters around Hokkaido and 6 meters along Tohoku and Hokuriku, with swell expected on the Hokuriku coast, and officials warn of transportation disruption and coastal hazards.