THE ASAHI SHIMBUN
February 5, 2024 at 19:00 JST
People stroll through the snow near Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, on the afternoon of Feb. 5. (Fumiko Yoshigaki)
Heavy snow is forecast for the Kanto-Koshin region, including the 23 wards in central Tokyo, from the afternoon of Feb. 5 to the following morning, which could disrupt public transportation and driving.
The possible snowfall is due to a low-pressure system moving eastward across the southern part of the main island of Honshu.
The Japan Meteorological Agency predicts the total snowfall in the 24 hours to 6 p.m. on Feb. 6 will reach 40 centimeters in the mountainous areas of the northern Kanto region; 30 cm in Nagano and Yamanashi prefectures; 15 cm in the Kanto region plains; and 8 cm in downtown Tokyo.
Due to potential snow accumulation and roads freezing, highway operators have announced the possible closure of some sections, including between the Ebina-minami Junction and the Shin-Hatano Interchange on the Shin-Tomei Expressway in Kanagawa Prefecture.
Drivers are advised to change to winter tires and carry tire chains for emergencies.
East Japan Railway Co. (JR East) said significant delays and train cancellations may occur if there is snow in Tokyo and the surrounding areas.
By 1 p.m. on Feb. 5, All Nippon Airways Co. and Japan Airlines Co. had canceled 34 and 55 flights, respectively, to and from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, affecting a total of approximately 10,530 passengers.
Authorities are advising people to refrain from nonessential and non-urgent outings and to work from home whenever possible.
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