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On January 8, 2021, the Prime Minister held the Ministerial Meeting on the Heavy Snow from January 7 at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Following the discussion, the Prime Minsiter said:

"A tremendous amount of snow has already fallen in areas along the Sea of Japan, and forecasts indicate heavy snow will continue to blanket vast areas.

The heavy snows are already affecting people’s lives, such as through the temporary suspension of expressways and train services as well as power outages. The Government is closely collaborating with local governments and relevant operators to conduct work to recover electricity and remove snow by the Self-Defense Forces. We will remain vigilant and be proactive in extending assistance.

I instruct each ministry and agency to be certain to engage in prompt and easy-to-understand communication with the citizens and swiftly gather information related to damage caused by this heavy snow. With respect to the areas currently experiencing power outages, I want you to make efforts to restore power as early as possible, working with relevant local governments and operators.

I also ask you to continue implementing relevant measures in advance and exerting every effort to secure safety and security, while identifying the needs of local governments and other entities.

I ask citizens to be sufficiently attentive to traffic disruptions, damages to facilities, snow falls from roofs, and snow slides, staying mindful of the latest weather, traffic, and other relevant information. In areas where heavy snow is expected, I also ask you to refrain from going out for non-essential or non-urgent reasons, while taking ample precautions when removing snow."