Today : Jan 30, 2025
29 January 2025

Heavy Snowfall Forecast For Northern Kyushu, Japan

Residents advised to prepare for significant snowfall and potential transportation disruptions as cold air drives winter conditions.

Residents of Northern Kyushu, Japan, are being urged to stay vigilant as meteorologists forecast significant snowfall beginning from the night of January 28, 2025, extending through January 29. According to alerts issued by the Fukuoka District Meteorological Observatory, intense cold air around 1,500 meters above ground is expected to deepen from the evening of January 29, causing heavy snowfall primarily across mountainous regions.

The official snowfall predictions indicate various accumulations across the Northern Kyushu region. The mountains are expected to receive about 10 centimeters of snow, with some areas even accumulating up to 20 centimeters. The plains, particularly around Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, might see about 1 to 3 centimeters of snow. Despite the forewarnings, areas such as Kitakyushu are expected to operate on regular schedules for buses, with minimal disruptions.

West Japan Railway Co. has announced potential disruptions to their bus services due to the impending harsh weather conditions on the 29th of January. Bus operations across several routes servicing the Fukuoka, Chikuho, Kurume, Saga, and Omuta regions could be affected from the start of service. Notably, the operations for the Tenjin Omuta Line, Kaizuka Line, and Chikuho Electric Railway are expected to continue unimpeded.

Fukuoka's weather conditions are projected to deteriorate significantly, especially concerning rainfall turning to snow during the night of January 28. The meteorological observations highlight the influence of the prevailing winter weather pattern, which is projected to strengthen, ensuring colder air remains trapped over the region.

The 24-hour snowfall estimates indicate urgency with snowfall amounts reaching concerning levels. For example, between 6 p.m. on January 28 and 6 p.m. on January 29, the mountains of Fukuoka and Kitakyushu can expect around 10 centimeters of snow, with plains potentially experiencing slight accumulations.

Public safety remains the primary concern as authorities have also alerted farmers to manage their crops and agricultural setups carefully. With the threat of heavy snow accumulations and ice formation, farmers are being advised to take proactive measures to protect their fields and infrastructure.

Overall, the harsh conditions leading to substantial snowfall pose risks for transportation and agricultural industries. Residents have been cautioned to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and to prepare their homes and vehicles for increased snowfall and ice accumulation. The meteorological agency continues to monitor the situation closely and advises the public to exercise caution during travel and routine activities.

Local authorities are expected to update residents regularly as more accurate snowfall predictions become available. On the ground, monitoring of roads, public transportation, and emergency services remains active as the severe weather impacts the daily lives and safety of Northern Kyushu inhabitants.