Image of the day
Record snowfall hits Japan in February 2026
Earth Observation | Copernicus
Cities
Cold Waves
Nature
Location: Niigata Prefecture, Japan
Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery
Record-breaking winter snowfall has affected Japan since late January 2026, causing significant disruptions, dozens of casualties, and hundreds of injuries nationwide. Niigata Prefecture, located along the Sea of Japan coast and about 300 km from Tokyo, is among the most affected areas.
This image, acquired by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites on 10 February 2026, shows Niigata’s coastal plain and surrounding mountains heavily covered in snow, with several cities visible beneath a broad white blanket.
Copernicus satellite data support the mapping of snow extent and persistence, helping authorities assess impacts and improve preparedness in case of exceptional snowfall.
