Weather officials are warning of strong winds and high waves on the Sea of Japan through Sunday night in northern and eastern areas of the country. They say heavy snowfall may follow.

Japan's Meteorological Agency says a rapidly developing low pressure system in the Sea of Okhotsk caused by an incoming cold air mass is moving northeast and bringing rough weather with snow.

Strong winds are forecast on Sunday up to 90 kilometers per hour in Hokkaido and over 80 kilometers per hour in the Tohoku region and neighboring Niigata Prefecture. Gusts over 120 kilometers per hour are also expected.

Weather officials warn that blizzards could hit the areas facing the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido through Sunday evening.

High waves up to 8 meters in Tohoku and 6 meters in Hokuriku and neighboring Niigata Prefecture are expected.

The weather agency says up to 70 centimeters of snow in Niigata Prefecture and 60 centimeters in Hokkaido and Tohoku are expected in the 24 hours through Monday morning.

It warns blizzards and snow drift could cause traffic disruptions. Rough seas are also expected.

The agency also warns of power outages due to avalanches and snow accumulating on power lines.

Weather officials are warning that cars could be stranded in the areas where they are hit with the first heavy snowfall of the season. They are calling on residents to get the latest weather information and refrain from going out unless absolutely necessary. When driving, please make sure to use snow tires or carry chains.