The Japan Sea side of the country usually receives a lot of snowfall in winter.

This is due to the cold, dry monsoon winds from the Siberian highlands that occur in northern Japan during winter, absorbing large amounts of water vapor as it crosses the Japan Sea, cooling it as it rises into the mountains of Japan, and falling as heavy snow.

During blizzards, buildings may collapse, crops and agricultural facilities are damaged, power and water are cut off, communication facilities are disrupted, and villages are isolated.

Blizzards can also cause avalanches and landslides, disrupting transportation such as roads and railroads. Personal safety is also threatened.

---