Archive · 29 Jan 2026
Japan braces for heavy snowstorms during election
Japan is expecting a lot of snow in the northern and western parts of the country.
This is happening while people are campaigning for an election that is taking place in the winter.
The last time Japan had a winter election was 36 years ago.
The snow could make it harder for people to go out and vote.
The weather agency says there could be up to 70 centimeters of snow in some places.
People are worried that the cold and snow might keep voters away from the polls.
Northern and western Japan face heavy snowstorms later this week.
Forecasted snowfall of up to 70 cm in Hokuriku and 60 cm in Kinki.
First winter election in Japan in 36 years is underway.
Freezing weather may lead to lower voter turnout.
The Meteorological Agency issued the weather warning on Thursday.
- Who
- Residents and lawmakers in northern and western Japan
- What
- Heavy snowstorms and a midwinter election
- When
- Later this week through Friday
- Where
- Northern and western parts of Japan, particularly along the Sea of Japan
- Why
- Weather conditions may affect voter turnout
- Region
- Northern and western Japan
- Forecasted Snowfall
- Up to 70 cm in Hokuriku, 60 cm in Kinki
- Timeframe
- Through Friday
- Election Type
- Midwinter election
- Last Winter Election
- 36 years ago