Key Facts
• Strong cold air below -30°C expected around 5,500 meters altitude over northern Kyushu from early February 2 to morning February 3
• Winter pressure pattern will intensify, causing heavy snow in Fukuoka’s mountains and plains
• Snowfall forecast from 6 PM February 1 for 24 hours (in cm):
| Region | Mountain Areas | Plains |
|---|---|---|
| Fukuoka | 10 | 3 |
| Kitakyushu | 10 | 3 |
| Chikuho | 10 | 3 |
| Chikugo | 10 | 3 |
• Snowfall forecast from 6 PM February 2 for 24 hours (in cm):
| Region | Mountain Areas | Plains |
|---|---|---|
| Fukuoka | 5 | 3 |
| Kitakyushu | 5 | 3 |
| Chikuho | 5 | 3 |
| Chikugo | 5 | 3 |
• Meteorological agency warns of poor visibility, snow accumulation, and icy roads
• Advises checking latest weather and traffic information before going out
• Recommends avoiding non-essential travel during heavy snow
Summary
The meteorological agency has issued a heavy snow warning for northern Kyushu, including Fukuoka Prefecture, from early February 2 through the morning of February 3. A strong cold air mass below -30°C at approximately 5,500 meters altitude will strengthen the winter pressure pattern, leading to significant snowfall in both mountainous and flat areas. Snowfall is expected to reach up to 10 centimeters in mountain regions and 3 centimeters in plains during the first 24-hour period starting 6 PM on February 1, followed by up to 5 centimeters in mountains and 3 centimeters in plains during the next 24 hours starting 6 PM on February 2. The agency cautions about deteriorating visibility, snow accumulation, and icy road conditions. Residents and travelers are urged to monitor the latest weather and traffic updates and to avoid unnecessary outings during heavy snow to ensure safety.
