Japan is grappling with record-breaking snowfall this winter, as a severe weather pattern has buried large swathes of the country under unprecedented snow depths, claimed dozens of lives, and overwhelmed transportation and emergency services. Northern and western regions, already no strangers to heavy winter precipitation, have endured snow accumulations far beyond typical seasonal norms amid an Arctic cold air mass over the archipelago.
Unprecedented Snow Depths and Fatalities Across Multiple Prefectures
Heavy snow has blanketed much of northern and western Japan since late January, resulting in snow depths up to 6.5 feet (about 2 metres) in the hardest-hit areas — far exceeding typical levels for this time of year. Authorities reported that at least 35 people have died and nearly 400 others injured in snow-related incidents, including falls while clearing snow from roofs and accidents caused by blocked roads and hazardous conditions.
The impact has been felt across 15 prefectures, with Aomori, Niigata, Akita, Yamagata and Hokkaido among the worst affected. In the Aomori region, known for its historically heavy winters, snow depths nearing two metres (nearly 7 feet) have overwhelmed infrastructure, prompting emergency warnings about roof collapses and falling snow hazards.
Snowfall Records Shattered and Weather Patterns Under Scrutiny
Meteorological agencies have confirmed that several regions have experienced record or near-record snowfall totals this winter. In Sapporo, snow depths in a 24-hour period reached levels not seen in years, while coastal and inland areas alike have seen accumulations that far surpass historical averages for early February.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) attributes the extreme conditions to a persistent cold air mass from the Arctic and atmospheric patterns that fuelled heavy snow bands along the Sea of Japan coast. These systems have repeatedly moved moisture-laden air inland, resulting in prolonged and intense snowfall extending from Hokkaido down through Tohoku and Hokuriku regions.
Widespread Disruption: Transport, Power and Public Services Affected
The sheer volume of snow has disrupted daily life and critical infrastructure. Highway routes and local roads remain blocked in numerous districts, forcing emergency services to navigate on foot in some cases. Train services — including high-speed bullet trains — have been suspended across large sections of the country, while Hokkaido’s main airport temporarily halted operations as runways became impassable.
Utilities have also been strained, with over 1,700 homes without electricity in prefectures like Aomori. Local governments have called on residents to remain vigilant, especially as melting snow and rising temperatures raise concerns about avalanches, landslides and slippery conditions that could prolong the disruption.
Emergency Response and Deployment of Self-Defence Forces
In response to the unfolding crisis, the Japan Ground Self-Defence Force has been deployed to assist with snow removal, disaster relief, and support for vulnerable residents, including the elderly who may struggle alone with the heavy snow. Teams have been tasked with clearing snow drifts from critical routes and aiding local authorities overwhelmed by the scale of the accumulation.
Thousands of snow plows have also been mobilised, with crews working around the clock to clear nearly 3,800 km (2,300 miles) of roads and restore safe passage for emergency vehicles. Despite these efforts, many communities remain isolated by snowbanks taller than a person.
Impact on Tourism, Local Activity, and Daily Life
While Japan’s deep snowfall is often celebrated by winter sports enthusiasts and tourists drawn to its renowned “Japow” powder, this year’s conditions have underscored the dangers that come with extreme snow. Local schools have been closed in affected areas, and residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel.
Several tragic incidents involving visitors to ski fields have also heightened safety concerns. Record snow, while attractive for skiing and snowboarding, poses risks such as avalanches and unstable snowpack, prompting increased safety advisories from both authorities and tourism organisations.
Broader Context and Historical Significance
Japan’s northern regions have long been renowned for heavy winter snow, with some communities historically accumulating enormous depths well above global averages. Places like Sukayu Onsen in Aomori Prefecture hold records for some of the highest snow depths in the world, demonstrating the island nation’s capacity for intense winter weather.
However, this season’s snowfall — occurring over sustained periods and across broad swathes of the country — has approached or broken measurements in areas that seldom see such extreme totals. Meteorologists caution that shifting climatic patterns may be influencing the severity and duration of snowfall events in East Asia this season.
Looking Ahead: Weather Forecasts and Safety Messages
Although the weather pattern is expected to ease in some areas, forecasters warn that additional snow showers and cold conditions could return as systems linger over the region, especially along the Sea of Japan coast. Authorities continue to issue safety warnings about snow hazards, urging residents to monitor forecast updates and heed local advisories.
As Japan contends with this extraordinary winter weather event, communities are forging resilience amid adversity — balancing recovery efforts with the long-standing cultural embrace of snow and winter life, even as the toll of this season’s storms becomes tragically clear.
