Tokyo, January 21, 2026 – The Europe Today: Japan’s weather agency on Wednesday issued warnings for heavy snowfall across wide areas from northern to western Japan through the weekend, cautioning that some major highways in central regions may be closed in advance as a preventive measure.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said snowfall is expected along the Pacific coast, where such conditions are uncommon, while areas along the Sea of Japan coast are forecast to experience even heavier snow on Thursday, according to media reports.
The government has urged residents to avoid non-essential travel, warning that transportation disruptions are likely. As a precaution, some sections of major highways, including parts of the Meishin Expressway and the Hokuriku Expressway, are expected to be temporarily closed starting Thursday.
According to the JMA’s forecast, up to 80 centimeters of snow could accumulate in the Hokuriku region of central Japan within the 24 hours through 6 a.m. Thursday. The Kinki and Chugoku regions in western Japan may see up to 70 centimeters, while the Tohoku region in the northeast is expected to receive up to 60 centimeters.
In northern Japan, Hokkaido, as well as the Kanto-Koshinetsu region including Tokyo, could record snowfall of up to 50 centimeters. The Tokai region in central Japan is forecast to receive around 40 centimeters of snow.
Authorities have advised the public to remain vigilant, monitor weather and traffic updates, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety amid the severe winter conditions.
