Severe weather hit Hokkaido on March 17, 2025, impacting transportation and prompting widespread school closures. The eastern region of Japan's northernmost island experienced intense blizzard conditions driven by a rapidly developing low-pressure system. Weather authorities issued multiple warnings, including storm, heavy snow, high tide, and wave warnings.
From 6 AM on March 18, 2025, 60 cm of snowfall was predicted for the Sea of Okhotsk side, creating hazardous driving conditions and severe visibility issues. This extreme weather resulted in all elementary and junior high schools being temporarily closed across several cities, including Obihiro and Kushiro. The temporary closures occurred as public officials aimed to safeguard students from the looming weather hazards.
Hokkaido’s train service was severely disrupted, with JR Hokkaido announcing the cancellation of 124 trains on the same day. Among those were 17 limited express trains, including the Oozora connecting Sapporo to Kushiro and the Tokachi route from Sapporo to Obihiro. The express trains were suspended from their first service until approximately 4 PM. Services on other lines, such as the Nemuro Line and the Hanasaki Line, were halted all day.
The storm also wreaked havoc on air travel, with New Chitose Airport experiencing the cancellation of around 30 flights due to the inclement weather. Notably, All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) canceled several of their flights scheduled to and from various regional airports. Among the canceled departures reported were flights to Notsukeushi, Kushiro, and Nemuro Nakashibetsu.
Major arrivals at New Chitose Airport were also affected. Flights arriving from places including Sendai and Kusiro were canceled, creating significant congestion for travelers. The cancellations disrupted travel plans for numerous passengers, leading to long wait times and frustrations at the airport.
Across the nation, strong winds and freezing temperatures characterized March 17. While Kanto experienced relatively milder weather, colder regions were expected to face winter-like conditions due to strong northerly winds associated with the low-pressure system. Weather experts advised citizens to dress warmly when heading out, as the freezing winds created discomfort and significant cold temperatures.
At the same time, there were concerns of increased pollen dispersal across the Pacific side of western and eastern Japan due to the strong winds. This situation presents challenges for those suffering from allergies and has prompted calls for individuals susceptible to pollen allergies to take necessary precautions.
Hokkaido Prefectural authorities and transportation agencies continue to monitor weather developments and potential impacts, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with real-time weather updates. The public is advised to exercise caution, avoid non-essential travel, and prepare for continued disruptions as the storm progresses.
Residents and travelers have expressed their frustrations over the widespread impact of this severe weather event. Many are forced to adapt their plans as authorities take measures to prioritize safety.
Beyond transport disruptions, the storm has initiated conversations about how to improve storm preparedness and response strategies across Hokkaido and Japan as extreme weather events become more frequent. Officials are focused on enhancing their emergency protocols and public notification systems to offer timely warnings to individuals affected by such conditions.
The precarious conditions of March 17 served as a stark reminder of the power of nature. Whether through school closures, transport delays, or icy weather conditions affecting daily life, the blizzard made its presence felt across Hokkaido, and its repercussions will be felt long after the storm has passed.
Authorities continue to advise residents to remain indoors whenever possible until weather conditions improve. Travel restrictions may remain enforced until authorities deem it safe to resume activities.
It’s clear this severe weather system was more than just another winter storm, as it significantly tested the resilience of transportation infrastructure and emergency services. The lessons learned from this powerful snowstorm may provide valuable insights for future weather-related incidents.