Snow disrupts transportation in Japan

TOKYO, Jan 24 (KUNA) -- Snow hit northern and western Japan including Tokyo on Tuesday, disrupting traffic, and bad weather is expected to continue to the next day, the country's weather agency said.
At least 210 flights were canceled, most of which were to and from airports in areas facing the Sea of Japan, according to various airlines.
Snowfall also caused suspensions or delay of trains in many areas across the country, while highways in the snow-hit areas were partially closed, the operators said.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said a strong winter pressure pattern is likely to cover the archipelago until Wednesday, with heavy snow and strong wind expected in wide areas of the country.
Up to 90 centimeters of snow will fall in the Hokuriku region in central Japan in the 24 hours through 6 p.m. Wednesday, the agency said, urging people to take precautions for heavy snow, blizzards, and frozen roads. (end) mk.hb