Prefectures in northern Japan have received much more snowfall than usual. Snow is still falling in coastal areas along the Sea of Japan, due to a winter pressure pattern and an overhead cold air mass.
The Meteorological Agency says there is a winter pressure pattern around the country and that it is snowing in coastal areas along the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido and Honshu.
Those areas have received above-average snowfall since last month's cold snap.
As of 5 a.m. on Tuesday, Aomori City had about 1.75 meters of snow on the ground, more than double the average for this time of year. And in the city of Shinjo, Yamagata Prefecture 1.64 meters of snow settled on the ground; 1.37 meters in Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture; 1.35 meters in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture; and one meter in Sapporo.
The winter pressure pattern is expected to start to ease gradually from the west on Tuesday. People are advised to watch for avalanches and snow falling from roofs. Authorities warn that power outages are possible, as snow has accumulated on power lines and nearby trees.
Caution is also advised against the possible collapse of vacant houses and agricultural facilities under the weight of excessive snow, especially in areas that have received record amounts of snow.
There are a number of reports from across the country of accidents involving snow-removal workers. Anyone engaging in such work should be sure to put on safety gear and work in groups.

Quiz 1:
What is the primary reason for the excessive snowfall in northern Japan?
A. A warm air mass moving northward
B. A winter pressure pattern and an overhead cold air mass
C. Increased volcanic activity
D. A shift in ocean currents

Quiz 2:
As of Tuesday at 5 a.m., which city had approximately 1.75 meters of snow on the ground?
A. Sapporo
B. Yamagata
C. Aomori City
D. Nagaoka City

Quiz 3:
What is one of the potential hazards authorities are warning about due to the heavy snowfall?
A. Possible avalanches and snow falling from roofs
B. Increased risk of earthquakes
C. A decrease in air quality
D. Volcanic eruptions



[Answer block]
Answers:
Quiz 1: B
Quiz 2: C
Quiz 3: A