Key Facts
• On January 2 evening, central Tokyo recorded its first snow and 1 cm snowfall.
• This is the first New Year snowfall in Tokyo in 11 years and first three-day snowfall since January 3, 1978 (48 years).
• January 3 morning snow depths: Kusatsu (Gunma) 26 cm, Oku-Nikko (Tochigi) 6 cm, Saitama 4 cm, Choshi (Chiba) 2 cm.
• Road surfaces in Kanto region may be frozen on January 3 morning; caution advised.
• Kanto plains will see clearing skies on January 3, but mountain areas and Nagano region remain snowy.
• Heavy snow warnings continue for Japan Sea side from Sanin to Tohoku regions.
• Avalanche and falling snow hazards present in areas with rapid snow accumulation.
• Pacific side mostly clear, but some snow expected in Kii Peninsula.
• Daytime highs on January 3 remain below average: Tokyo 10°C, Osaka and Fukuoka 8°C, Nagoya 7°C.
• Strong cold air affects both Japan Sea and Pacific sides, causing widespread snow.
Summary
Central Tokyo experienced its first New Year snowfall in 48 years, with 1 cm recorded on the evening of January 2. This rare event breaks the usual trend of clear skies during the first three days of the year. While snow has mostly stopped in the Kanto lowlands by January 3 morning, mountain areas still hold significant snow depths, and road freezing poses a safety risk. The Japan Sea side continues to face heavy snow, especially from the Sanin region to Tohoku, with avalanche and falling snow dangers. Although the Pacific side sees more sunshine, some snow is expected in parts of the Kii Peninsula. Temperatures remain below seasonal averages, emphasizing the need for thorough cold weather preparation. Residents are advised to stay alert to weather changes and travel hazards during this unusually snowy New Year period.
