Snowfall Disrupts Travel Across Japan, Concerns Rise for Commuters
Heavy snowfall continues to blanket large portions of Japan, causing widespread travel disruptions and prompting authorities to urge caution. The challenging weather conditions, which began in late December 2025 and have persisted into February 2026, are impacting transportation networks from Hokkaido in the north to the greater Tokyo area.
More than 60 flights have been cancelled, and delays are widespread across major routes including Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Hokkaido, reportedly impacting thousands of travelers. The situation is particularly acute in Sapporo, where a massive snowfall has effectively paralyzed the city. Residents are bracing for continued snowfall, with concerns mounting over potential road closures and hazardous conditions.
The Japan Meteorological Agency is warning that snowfall may intensify in areas along the Sea of Japan coast. A recent advisory, issued on Wednesday, January 22nd, urged caution regarding traffic and transport disruptions. The agency is also forecasting potential snowfall in eastern Japan, including the greater Tokyo area, around Thursday, February 16th.
The current weather pattern represents a significant shift from milder conditions experienced over the weekend. Authorities are advising commuters to anticipate potential delays and exercise extreme caution on roadways, particularly in mountainous regions where the risk of icy conditions is highest. The evening of February 16th and the following day, February 17th, are expected to bring rain or snow to the Kanto region, with a possibility of snowfall even in the 23 wards of Tokyo. The specific conditions that would lead to snowfall in Tokyo involve a combination of temperature and precipitation patterns, as detailed in recent forecasts.
The disruptions extend beyond air travel. Road conditions are deteriorating rapidly, and partial highway closures have been reported. The situation is compounded by the fact that the snowfall follows a period of relatively mild weather, leaving infrastructure and communities less prepared for the sudden onset of winter conditions.
Weather officials are urging residents to stay informed about the latest forecasts and heed all warnings and advisories. They emphasize the importance of avoiding unnecessary travel and taking appropriate precautions when venturing outdoors. The focus remains on ensuring public safety and minimizing the impact of the severe weather on daily life. The return of winter’s harsh conditions is a stark reminder of the challenges posed by Japan’s seasonal weather patterns.
In Hokkaido, residents are already facing the reality of extensive snow removal efforts. The shift in weather has brought a return to the need for constant clearing of roads and pathways, a common occurrence during the winter months in the region. The situation is being closely monitored by local authorities, who are coordinating efforts to maintain essential services and ensure the safety of the population.
The recent bout of severe weather in Japan is part of a broader pattern of punishing winter storms impacting East Asia. Reports indicate that China and South Korea have also been grappling with significant snowfall and related disruptions throughout December 2025 and into the new year, creating widespread travel chaos across the region.
