Heavy snowfall is set to disrupt transportation across Fukui and Toyama prefectures as the region braces for its coldest weather of the winter. The Fukui Local Meteorological Office has warned of substantial snowfall beginning the morning of February 4, with predictions extending through February 6. This event is expected to bring severe cold, with temperatures dropping to below -36°C at altitudes of around 5,000 meters, creating strong winter atmospheric conditions over the Hokuriku region.
The Japan Sea low pressure system, moving northeast, will significantly impact weather patterns, leading to intensified snowfall across the area. According to the latest forecasts, areas including Hokuriku will witness heavy snowfall accumulation with warning-level conditions expected due to the strength of cold air masses and stalled snow clouds. Fukui prefecture is particularly vulnerable, with predictions of snow accumulation of up to 70 centimeters for mountainous regions.
Forecasts predict the following snowfall and wave heights across Fukui from February 4 to February 6:
Snow Accumulation (February 4, 6 AM to February 5, 6 AM):
- Hokuriku North Plain: 30 cm
- Hokuriku North Mountains: 40 cm
- Hokuriku South Plain: 30 cm
- Hokuriku South Mountains: 40 cm
- Okuetsu: 70 cm
- Hokuriku Southeast Plain: 10 cm
- Hokuriku Southeast Mountains: 20 cm
- Hokuriku Southwest Plain: 5 cm
- Hokuriku Southwest Mountains: 7 cm
Wave Height Forecast:
- February 4: Hokuriku - 5 meters
- February 5: Hokuriku - 6 meters
The Fukui Local Meteorological Office has urged caution due to potential traffic disruptions caused by heavy snowfall from the morning of February 4 through February 6. Residents are advised to remain vigilant about possible blizzard conditions, reduced visibility, and potential hazards such as snow accumulation on power lines and trees, avalanches, and road freezing.
Meanwhile, the nearby Ishikawa prefecture is also expected to experience significant snowfall during the same timeframe, particularly from early morning on February 4 and continuing until February 6. The Kanazawa Local Meteorological Office has echoed similar warnings, noting the potential for transportation disruptions.
Specific snowfall forecasts for Ishikawa are as follows:
Snow Accumulation (February 4, 6 AM to February 5, 6 AM):
- Kaga Plain: 40 cm
- Kaga Mountains: 70 cm
- Noto Plain: 30 cm
- Noto Mountains: 40 cm
Wave Height Forecast:
- February 4: Kaga - 4 meters
- Noto - 4 meters
Starting from February 5, wave heights may reach up to 6 meters due to the winter atmospheric pressure system intensifying over the Japan Sea.
Both meteorological offices have cautioned inhabitants to prepare for dangerous conditions, ensuring proper precautions against heavy snowfall's potential damage to agricultural facilities, trees, and power lines. Residents living near weakened structures from past seismic activity should also be mindful of potential collapses due to the weight of the accumulating snow.
Safety alerts have been issued, especially for those near the Noto Peninsula, where flooding from wave surges is also possible due to forecasted high tides.
Consequently, residents are encouraged to remain updated on weather conditions and follow guidance from local authorities to mitigate risks associated with this significant winter weather event.