Heavy snowfall across wide areas of Japan over the New Year’s holiday period could disrupt public transit and prompt road closures, officials warned, just weeks after a snowstorm left thousands of people stranded on an expressway connecting Tokyo with Niigata Prefecture.
The Land, Infrastructure and Tourism Ministry said a strong winter pressure system is expected to dump snow over parts of the country from Wednesday through Friday. Heavy snow is expected mostly in regions facing the Sea of Japan, even in low-lying areas.
In a statement, the ministry urged people to avoid nonessential outings and said that those who do venture out should be aware of the risk becoming stuck due to heavy snow. It urged drivers to take steps in advance such as preparing chains and winter tires.