Thu Feb 06 11:05:10 UTC 2025: ## Record Snowfall Cripples Hokkaido, Disrupts Travel and Daily Life
**Sapporo, Japan** – Record-breaking snowfall has paralyzed parts of Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, causing widespread travel disruptions, airport closures, and school cancellations. The Hokkaido prefectural government reported that eastern regions, particularly Obihiro and Kushiro, have been hardest hit, with city offices inundated with calls from stranded motorists.
Obihiro saw a staggering 129cm (4ft) of snow on Tuesday, a record for the area. The Japan Meteorological Agency attributes the extreme weather to two powerful low-pressure systems bringing frigid air to the archipelago. Further snowfall is predicted, with up to 100cm expected in northwestern Japan and an additional 50cm in Hokkaido over the next 24 hours.
The heavy snowfall has resulted in significant transport chaos. Sections of highways and main roads are closed, train services are suspended in affected areas, and Obihiro and Kushiro airports have shut down their runways, leading to the cancellation of dozens of flights and impacting thousands of travelers. Approximately 370 schools across Hokkaido closed their doors on Tuesday. Mail and delivery services have also been severely impacted, causing delays across the island and nationwide.
Despite the chaos, Sapporo, host to a popular snow festival, has so far avoided major disruptions. Television footage shows residents battling the snow, digging out stranded vehicles. Authorities report no serious injuries or major property damage at this time. Hokkaido officials urge residents and visitors to prepare for travel by carrying shovels and warm clothing. The unprecedented snowfall continues to pose significant challenges to the island’s infrastructure and daily life.
First Piper 