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Japan’s famous deep snow is the product of a powerful interaction between cold Siberian air, a warm marginal sea, steep mountains, and several global climate patterns. This article explains how winter precipitation occurs in Japan, from local sea-effect processes to the large-scale teleconnections that control cold-air supply, storm tracks and moisture. 1. How Japan Gets So Much Snow 1.1 Sea-Effect or “Japan Sea” Snow Most of Japan’s legendary winter snow falls on the Sea of Japan side of Honshu and across Hokkaido. The mechanism is similar to Great Lakes snow in North America, but on a larger scale: In winter, the East Asian winter monsoon drives cold, dry air out of Siberia toward Japan. As this air crosses the relatively warm Sea of Japan , it picks up heat and moisture. A narrow convergence band known as the Japan Sea Polar Air Mass Convergence Zone (JPCZ) frequently forms, focusing clouds and snowfall into intense bands over the sea. ...
Overall Theme by Zeeshan Mushtaq (dec) The western Himalayas have experienced a late start to the season, with limited early snowfall. Almost a one month later than Europe cycle as seen in the French alps However, a surprise storm at the end of December has brought much-needed snow, setting the stage for this season's base snow cover. What’s Happened Since October? October: One of the driest Octobers in history for the western Himalaya November: Sporadic snowfall up to 5000 meters, with most snow disappearing quickly: Solar aspects: Nearly all snow melted. North-facing aspects: 1-3 cm persisted in cold, sheltered zones. December (early to mid): Late November: Precipitation higher in certain areas: Sonamarg and Gurez: Accumulations up to 1 foot in high elevations. Pahalgam by Zeeshan Mushtaq ( early mid dec) Upper Kullu Valley, Gon...
When planning a trip to India for ski touring, splitboarding or hiking in remote areas, it’s crucial to understand the country’s strict regulations regarding satellite communication and radio devices. Devices like satellite messengers (e.g., Garmin inReach) and satellite phones, which transmit data or messages to satellites, are illegal in India without proper authorization. Key Points: Illegal to Transmit: Any device capable of transmitting data to satellites, including messengers and sat phones, is prohibited without explicit permission. Receiving-Only Devices are Permitted : Devices that solely receive satellite signals, such as GPS units or mobile phones using location services, are generally allowed. Instances of Enforcement Visitors to India have faced legal consequences for carrying unauthorized satellite communication devices: Recently a Scottish hiker was detained at Delhi Airport after customs officials discovered a Garmin inReach device in her luggage. The device ...
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