Record Snowfall Paralyzes Japan’s Northern Gateway
Over 2,000 travelers found themselves living out a real-life ‘Planes, Trains, and Automobiles’ scenario this week as Hokkaido’s New Chitose Airport turned into an impromptu shelter. A historic snowstorm dumping 1.5 meters of powder since Monday night halted all transport links, leaving visitors sleeping on terminal floors and sharing viral TikTok updates 🎥❄️.
Local authorities distributed blankets and instant noodles while crews worked round-the-clock to clear runways. "I’ve never seen snow like this – it’s like being inside a shaken snow globe!" said Australian tourist Liam Chen, among those stranded since his Osaka flight was canceled.
Winter’s Wrath Across Asia
The storm comes as East Asia experiences its coldest January since 2016, with Seoul hitting -18°C and Beijing issuing rare extreme-weather alerts. Climate scientists warn such events could become more frequent due to shifting polar vortex patterns 🌏🌡️.
Travelers are advised to check airline apps before heading to airports this week, with JR Hokkaido rail services still disrupted. Pro tip from locals? Pack extra phone chargers and download Netflix shows offline before flying north this season! 📱🧳
