Heavy snow blanketed much of the Sea of Japan coast on Tuesday, disrupting transportation and prompting authorities to request the dispatch of the Self-Defense Forces for disaster relief after about 1,000 vehicles were stranded.
Due to a strong cold front and a low-pressure system, snow continued to fall mainly in the Hokuriku region, which has seen heavier snow accumulation than in average years. The same day, the central government set up a liaison office at the Prime Minister's Office to gather information about the snow.
The Meteorological Agency warned the public that heavy snowfall could continue through Wednesday from northern to western Japan, mainly in the areas along the Sea of Japan coast.