YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- 2018 brought Yokota a great snow fall. It was perfect for sleds, building snowmen and snowball fight. However, it brought the worst conditions for those who had somewhere to go. When snow starts to stick to the ground, the Civil Engineer Squadron Snow and Ice Control Team will get activated to start the snow and ice removal operations from the roads. While everyone on Yokota will need assistance moving the snow; airfield, mission essential roads and pathways become the first priority.

While most enjoy the snow with its days off and opportunity for fun; it can create hardships for those who still need to go about their day. For those who need information about the snow removal around buildings, sidewalks and entrances, they can reach their facility manager. Or maybe find someone with a snow shovel and buy them lunch.

While Yokota residents eagerly await the snow plow, driving with snow and ice on the ground can be dangerous and should be limit when possible.

“When it is snowing, limit driving on the road because the roads become slippery especially if you are not used to it,” said Master Sgt. Alvin Pablo, 374th Civil Engineer Squadron, Pavements and Equipment section chief. “Drive carefully and be safe. If you see our snow equipment please be patient don’t drive around it we are trying to clear the snow and ice on the road.”