Overview
- The Japan Meteorological Agency called for vigilance as heavy snow is forecast across the Japan Sea side of eastern and western Japan.
- Through 06:00 Jan. 3, projected 24-hour snowfall peaks at 70 cm in Hokuriku, 60 cm in Kinki, 50 cm in northern Kyushu and Chugoku, and 40 cm in Kanto‑Koshin, with 20 cm in Shikoku.
- A subsequent outlook for 06:00 Jan. 3 to 06:00 Jan. 4 maintains notable accumulations, including about 40 cm in Kanto‑Koshin and Hokuriku, 30 cm in Kinki, 20 cm in Chugoku, 7 cm in Shikoku, and 5 cm in northern Kyushu.
- The Fukuoka District Meteorological Observatory issued a heavy snow advisory for all of Fukuoka Prefecture, estimating around 10 cm in mountains and 3 cm on plains through early Jan. 3.
- Officials warn about snow accretion on structures, avalanche risk, and transportation disruptions, with particular concern for northern Kyushu and for areas that typically receive little snow.