Recorded snowfall interferes with daily life in northern Japan Hokkaido | Weather News

The record snowfall fell in the Japanese northern main island of Hokkaido, disturbing traffic, causing the airport closing and delaying delivery.

The Hokkaido Prefecting Government said that record snowfall was noticed especially in the eastern regions of the island, including Obihiro and Kushiro, whose city offices received dozens of calls for the help of drivers whose vehicles stopped in the snow.

Heavy snow and traffic disorders came just as the popular snow festival began in Sapporou in South Hokkaid, although the city did not face major disorders.

Television shots showed that residents shove snow and passengers pushing vehicles that were stuck. No injuries or great damage has been reported so far.

In Obihir, a record snowfall of 129 cm (4FT) was previously discovered on Tuesday.

The Japanese Meteorological Agency said that two strong low pressure systems move on both sides of the Japanese archipelago, sending cold air in the region.

The agency predicted up to 100 cm (3,3ft) snowfall in northwestern Japan and 50 cm (1.6ft) more in Hokkaid in the next 24 hours until Wednesday night.

The prefecture said that parts of the highway and main roads were closed and rail services in the affected areas were suspended. The runways were closed due to snow at Obihiro and Kushiro airports, while dozens of flights in Hokkaid were canceled and hit thousands of people.

About 370 schools canceled classes on Tuesday in Hokkaid, according to prefecture.

Snow also caused the closure of postal offices and other distribution services, delaying delivery within Hokkaid and destinations across Japan.

Hokkaida officials called the inhabitants and visitors wear shovels and warm clothes in their vehicles in case they stop the snow.