On Friday, January 2, 2026, the first snowfall of the season was observed in central Tokyo and Yokohama. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, it arrived one day earlier than the average but 14 days later than last season. The agency warned of heavy snowfall through Saturday in eastern to western regions facing the Sea of Japan, urging caution against traffic accidents on icy roads.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warned on Saturday, January 3, 2026, of risks for heavy snowfall across the Sea of Japan side of eastern and western Japan. It also cautioned against lightning strikes and tornadoes on the Pacific side of eastern Japan.
This weather pattern stems from a strong winter pressure system around Japan, with frigid air below minus 36 degrees Celsius flowing in at about 5,500 meters above Honshu. The cold air is triggering heavy snowfall primarily along the Sea of Japan coast.
The previous day, on January 2, central Tokyo and Yokohama recorded the season's first snowfall, arriving one day earlier than the average but 14 days later than last season. Snowfall is expected to persist across various parts of the country on Saturday, and the agency is urging people to beware of traffic accidents due to icy roads.
This winter's conditions, driven by the intense cold air mass, are affecting the entire Honshu region, and officials advise residents and travelers to monitor updates and proceed with caution.
