Deadly snowfall grips Northern Japan as weekend warnings rise
Deadly snowfall grips Northern Japan as weekend warnings rise
Northern Japan faces ongoing heavy snow with dozens dead and hundreds injured; authorities warn melting snow could trigger landslides this weekend.
Northern Japan remains blanketed by heavy snowfall over the past two weeks, contributing to at least 35 deaths nationwide, officials said on Wednesday. About 15 prefectures are affected as the snow piles in the worst-hit areas reached roughly two meters (about 6.5 feet). In Niigata Prefecture, 12 fatalities have been confirmed, including a man in his 50s found on the roof of his home in Uonuma city.
In Nagaoka city, a man in his 70s collapsed in front of his home and died, believed to have fallen from the roof while raking snow. Across the country, injuries total 393, with 126 listed as serious. Fourteen homes were damaged nationwide, including three in Niigata and eight in Aomori Prefecture, underscoring the widespread disruption caused by the storm.
Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara urged residents to stay vigilant, warning that although temperatures are rising, melting snow could trigger landslides and slippery surfaces. Authorities have formed task forces to respond to the heavy snow in Niigata and nearby regions, and officials cautioned people to use helmets or lifeline ropes when clearing snow.
Public life has already been affected: many local schools are closed, and some public transport services have been suspended in affected areas. Forecasters say more heavy snow is in the forecast for the coming weekend, prompting continued safety advisories and preparations for potential further disruptions.
