On November 24, Japanese capital and neighboring prefectures witness an unusual natural phenomenon - the first November snowfall.

This phenomenon hasn't occurred in the Japanese capital since the year 1962. Usually, in November, the tempreture varies from 10ºC to 17ºC.

Many residents were surprised by the first snowfall: in Tokyo and neighbouring cities - Utsunomiya, Maebashi, Yokohama, Kofu, Mito - the shortness of traffic on the roads was recorded; the public transport works intermittently. Meteorologists forecasting up to an inch would fall and more in the mountains north-west of the city. Also, experts say the frozen road surfaces may appear.

The first November snow in Japan over the last 54 years isn't the only record beaten on November 24. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, it was the first time fallen snow on the ground was observed in the month of November since such records started to be taken in 1875.

Usually, the first snow in Japan starts falling toward the end of December.

Local media reported at least 34 people were injured in the capital and its environs.

In addition to the public transport works intermittently, trains on the lines, such as Seibu and Keio, as well as subway systems in Tokyo also experienced delays.

In the photo: Imperial Palace during an unexpected snowfall, November 24.

In the photo: streets of Tokyo, November 24.