Winter's Heavy Snow: How to Stay Safe and Prepared

Due to a strong winter pressure pattern, meteorologists also expect heavy snow on January 10. Expect it to focus on the Sea of Japan coast of Honshu, Japan's largest island. Comprehensive preparations are essential to minimize damage and protect lives.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, strong cold air is flowing over the area. This could potentially lead to alarm-level heavy snowfall, particularly in northern, eastern, and western Japan along the Sea of Japan coast. Caution is required across a wide range of areas.

Concerns About Traffic Disruption

One major concern is the impact on transportation. In recent years, heavy snow has repeatedly left vehicles and trains stranded. Some people have been stuck for hours. Those with health problems should take greater precautions to avoid stranding as weather conditions could impede rescue. Effective countermeasures and crisis management are crucial.

Avoid unnecessary outings. If driving is unavoidable, use winter tires or chains. It is also prudent to prepare emergency supplies such as food and blankets.

Public transportation may grind to a halt due to cancellations or delays, leading to major disruptions during rush hours. This can affect transportation in regions far beyond those experiencing the heavy snow.

*Snow cleared and piled up on the roadside. January 8, Aomori City (©Kyodo)*

Staying updated with weather and traffic information, avoiding overexertion, and prioritizing safety is essential. Businesses and schools should respond flexibly with measures like time adjustments, telework, or remote learning.

Preventing Accidents and Fatalities

Accidents due to slip-and-fall are common and dangerous during snow and ice conditions. Moreover, slipping while removing snow from rooftops, or passing near the edge of the roof risks accidents from snow sliding off rooftops. Sadly, these result in fatalities every year. It is vital to wear safety harnesses and helmets, work during daylight, and communicate with others while performing such tasks.

Power outages are also possible, so checking emergency supplies like flashlights and portable gas stoves is advisable.

In urban areas that rarely experience snow, even light snowfall can lead to accidents from slipping. Wearing non-slip rubber boots and walking slowly with short strides can help ensure safety.

*Snow accumulated on the roof of Kinkaku-ji, Kita Ward, Kyoto City. January 10 (from a Kyodo News helicopter).*

Government and Local Support

Aomori Prefecture has been experiencing record-breaking snow since the end of 2024. In response, it applied the Disaster Relief Act to ten municipalities for the first time in 13 years. This measure provides financial support for snow removal and other needs.

Other municipalities should consider similar measures as needed. In rural mountainous areas, agricultural damage is anticipated. The national and local governments must consider support measures.

A National Priority on Disaster Preparedness

In Japan, where earthquakes are frequent and water-related disasters are intensifying, all citizens must take disaster preparedness seriously. Heavy snow is no exception. Governments, transportation and infrastructure companies, hospitals, schools, and other stakeholders must work closely together to mitigate damage.

(Read the article in Japanese.)

Author: The Sankei Shimbun