Weather officials are warning of more heavy snow mainly along the Sea of Japan coast from northern to western Japan, as a winter pressure pattern is expected to intensify again.

The Meteorological Agency says another cold air mass will stream in from Thursday through Saturday.

The officials say they also expect heavy snow in mountainous areas on the Pacific side, and snow accumulation in low-lying areas.

Maximum snowfall over the 24-hour period through Thursday evening is expected to be 40 centimeters in the Tokai region, 30 centimeters in Niigata Prefecture, and 25 centimeters in the Kanto-Koshin region.

In the 24 hours through Friday evening, 70 to 100 centimeters of snow is expected in Niigata Prefecture, 60 to 80 centimeters in the regions of Hokuriku and Kanto-Koshin, and 50 to 70 centimeters in the Tohoku region.

In the 24 hours through Saturday evening, 50 to 70 centimeters of snow is expected in Kanto-Koshin, 40 to 60 centimeters in Niigata Prefecture, and 20 to 40 centimeters in the regions of Hokuriku and Kinki.

Weather officials are warning of strong winds mainly in areas along the Sea of Japan coast from northern to western Japan. The seas are also expected to become rough.

The officials are urging people to be on the alert for traffic disruptions caused by heavy snow, icy roads, blizzards and snowdrifts. They are also urging caution against strong winds, high waves, avalanches, and snow accumulation on power lines and trees.

More snow is possible in areas hit by heavy snow in recent days.

Officials are calling on people to stay updated on the weather conditions and to be prepared.