January 21, 2026
Heavy snowfall and record low temperatures have caused disruptions across Japan. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued a warning of heavy snowfall in northern and western regions between 21 and 25 January, with the Hokuriku, Kinki, and Chugoku regions expected to receive up to 80 centimetres of snow during a 24-hour period. The extreme weather has caused cancellations of multiple domestic flights and disruptions to railway lines in Tohoku and Hokuriku. Preventive road closures of highways can also be expected. Authorities have advised people to avoid non-essential travel. Accumulation of snow on power lines could also cause blackouts.