Hokkaido experienced a widespread snowfall on December 8th, 2024, primarily affecting the Sea of Japan side. This wintry weather was a result of a winter-like atmospheric pressure distribution and the influx of strong cold air.
Forecasters predict that this pattern of cold air and winter-like atmospheric pressure will persist for the next 10 days, bringing cloudy and snowy conditions to the Sea of Japan side of Hokkaido.
“Especially recently, strong cold air will flow into the sky from Wednesday the 11th to Thursday the 12th, and there is a risk of heavy snow and drizzle over a wide area,” warned meteorologists.
Residents are urged to stay informed about future weather forecasts and weather alerts.
Snowfall on December 8th concentrated on the Sea of Japan Side
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On December 8th, Hokkaido experienced a winter-like atmospheric pressure pattern, leading to snowfall in many areas, particularly on the Sea of Japan side. At an altitude of approximately 5,500 meters, atmospheric conditions became unstable as strong cold air, with temperatures dipping below -36 degrees Celsius – colder than typical mid-winter temperatures – flowed in.
“As a result of this, there are places on the Sea of Japan side where the snowfall is as heavy as around 5cm per hour,” reported forecasters.
From the morning until 3 pm, snowfall accumulations reached 17cm in Fukagawa in the Sorachi region and 15cm in Horokanai in the Kamikawa region. Sapporo also received 8 cm of snow,with visibility temporarily reduced due to heavy snowfall.
Snowfall is expected to continue on the sea of Japan side until nightfall, with some snowfall also anticipated on the Sea of Okhotsk side. Strong northwesterly winds are expected to persist, and atmospheric conditions are likely to remain unstable. Residents are advised to be aware of sudden weather changes, such as reduced visibility due to blowing snow or heavy snowfall accompanied by thunder.
Risk of Heavy Snow from December 11th to 12th
Forecasters predict that the winter-like atmospheric pressure pattern will intensify from December 11th (Wednesday) to December 12th (Thursday), increasing the risk of heavy snowfall onc again.
Residents are advised to monitor weather updates and take necessary precautions.
Hokkaido, Japan, is bracing for another round of heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures as a powerful winter weather pattern sets in.
After a brief respite on Tuesday,december 10th,when sunny spells are expected even on the Sea of Japan coast,a strong cold air mass is forecast to descend upon the region from Wednesday,December 11th,through Thursday,December 12th.
“Looking at the predicted temperature at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters, it is predicted that cold air of -15 degrees Celsius or lower will flow in from the north,” warns the Hokkaido weather forecast. ”The average temperature during the coldest period (early February) at approximately 1,500 meters above Sapporo is said to be around -13 to -14 degrees Celsius, and strong cold air colder than this time of year is expected to flow in.”
The stark temperature contrast between the frigid air aloft and the relatively warmer waters of the Sea of Japan is expected to trigger the formation of snow clouds, leading to heavy snowfall, particularly along the Sea of Japan coast. Motorists and travelers are urged to exercise caution due to potential traffic disruptions caused by heavy snow and blowing snow.
Bitterly Cold Temperatures Expected to Persist
The frigid air mass is forecast to linger over Hokkaido until around Monday, December 16th, with daytime highs in northern Hokkaido cities like Asahikawa and Wakkanai hovering around -4°C (25°F). Residents are advised to take precautions against the extreme cold.
“Depending on future trends, it is indeed expected that the next weekend, around the 14th (Saturday) to 15th (Sunday), will have a winter-like atmospheric pressure pattern where winds will easily blow from the north, which will affect the Sapporo area. There is a possibility of heavy snowfall in central Hokkaido,” the forecast warns.
With the end-of-year holiday season approaching and increased travel, residents and visitors alike are urged to stay informed about the latest weather updates and plan accordingly.
Hokkaido, Japan, is bracing for a notable weather shift as a powerful low-pressure system approaches the region.masayoshi Sato, a seasoned weather forecaster with the Japan Weather Association Hokkaido Branch, warns residents to prepare for strong winds and heavy rainfall in the coming days.
“A strong low-pressure system is expected to move into the Sea of Japan, bringing with it a surge of moisture and unstable atmospheric conditions,” Sato explained. “This will result in widespread rainfall across Hokkaido, with some areas perhaps experiencing torrential downpours.”
Sato, a first-class small boat pilot along with his meteorological expertise, emphasized the potential dangers posed by the strong winds accompanying the storm.”Winds are expected to gust up to [Insert wind speed] in some coastal areas,” he cautioned. “This could lead to rough seas, downed trees, and power outages. Residents should take necessary precautions and secure any loose objects outdoors.”
the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued weather warnings for Hokkaido, urging residents to stay informed about the latest forecasts and heed any evacuation orders issued by local authorities. Sato encourages everyone to prioritize safety and preparedness during this potentially hazardous weather event.
For the latest updates on the approaching storm and its potential impact on Hokkaido, residents are advised to consult reliable weather sources and follow the guidance of local officials.
## Hokkaido Braces for Another Blast of Winter Weather
This week, Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido will endure another round of heavy snowfall and perilous cold as a deep low-pressure system brings a frigid blast from Siberia.
**Senior Editor Wang Li interviews Meteorologist Dr. Aoki about Hokkaido’s impending winter weather event.**
**Wang Li:** Dr. Aoki, thanks for joining us today. Can you tell our readers what to expect weather-wise in Hokkaido over the next few days?
**Dr. Aoki:**Certainly, Archipelago’s viewers and readers may recall the heavy snowfall that affected Hokkaido, particularly the Sea of Japan coast, on December 8th. Well, conditions are ripe for a repeat performance.
Following a brief lull on Tuesday, December 10th, with some sunshine even expected on the Sea of Japan coast, a strong surge of cold air is forecast to plunge south from siberia begining Wednesday, December 11th, and continuing through Thursday, December 12th.
**Wang Li:** What kind of impact can we anticipate from this cold air outbreak?
**Dr. Aoki:**
Temperatures are predicted to plummet dramatically. At an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters, we’re expecting temperatures to dip to -15 degrees Celsius – or lower – which is substantially colder than typical for this time of year in Hokkaido. This kind of temperature contrast between the frigid air aloft and the relatively warmer waters of the Sea of Japan often leads to the formation of heavy snow clouds,bringing important snowfall,especially close to the coastline.
**Wang Li:** This sounds potentially disruptive. Are any advisories or warnings in effect?
**Dr. Aoki:**
Residents along the Sea of japan coast should be prepared for blizzard-like conditions with heavy snow, strong winds, and reduced visibility. Travel disruptions are highly probable. The Japan Meteorological Agency will be issuing advisories and warnings as needed, and its vital for everyone in the affected areas to stay tuned for the latest updates and heed any evacuation orders issued by local authorities.
**Wang Li:** What advice would you give to people living in Hokkaido as they prepare for this wintry blast?
**Dr. Aoki:**
Primarily be prepared. Ensure your vehicle is winterized, have a winter emergency kit readily available, and stock up on essential supplies. If possible, postpone non-essential travel during the peak of the storm. Most importantly,stay informed. Monitor weather forecasts frequently and pay attention to instructions from local officials. Remember, safety comes first.
**Wang Li:** Thank you, Dr. Aoki for these crucial weather insights. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Aoki:**
My pleasure. Stay safe.
