Tokyo hit by heaviest snowfall since 2014

Tokyo witnessed its heaviest snowfall in four years on Monday, as authorities urged commuters to return home soon from outdoors and get ready to brace for major traffic jams.

The heavy snow in the capital prompted the Japanese Meteorological Agency to issue a warning to all of Tokyo's 23 wards, the Japan Times reported.

The country's transport ministry issued an emergency announcement on Sunday, urging people to remain in their homes and not to go out unless absolutely necessary.

Due to heavy snowfall, about 50 cars were stranded on the Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay. Authorities said that the bridge had been closed due to car accidents caused by the snow, leading to a massive traffic disruption.

Train services at Yurikamome Metro Line, which also passes Tokyo Bay after snow accumulated on a slope over the track. The line is still closed as of now.

The snow disrupted air and rail traffic as well. The Japan Airlines cancelled over 120 flights at Haneda International Airport as of 5:30 pm on Monday, affecting more than 15,000 travellers.

Tokyo Metro Corporation announced that it would delay or cancel train services on its lines and urged passengers to check for updates on its website.

According to the weather agency, the Kanto region is expected to get 10 to 40 cm of snowfall up till 6 am on Tuesday. This also includes 5 to 10 cm in Tokyo's 23 wards.

The Japan Automobile Federation urged drivers to use tire chains to prevent skidding and to avoid sudden acceleration to maintain control.