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Tokyo and Yokohama Record First Snow of Season as JMA Flags Accumulations Through Jan. 3

Forecasters blame a strong winter pressure pattern and very cold upper air for the short-lived storm.

Overview

  • Snow fell in central Tokyo on Jan. 2, arriving a day earlier than the long-term average but 14 days later than last season.
  • The Japan Meteorological Agency expects up to 10 cm in mountainous northern Kanto in 24 hours, 4 cm in northern lowlands, 5 cm in Hakone, Tama and Chichibu, and 1 cm in southern lowlands.
  • The advisory window runs from Friday afternoon into Saturday, with additional light accumulation possible in parts of southern Kanto including Tokyo.
  • The agency reports cold air near −36 C at about 5,500 meters driving the event under a winter-type pressure setup.
  • Officials urge caution for icy roads as snowfall persists in parts of the country into Saturday.