Deadly snowstorm in Japan leaves 30 dead amid record accumulations

• At least 30 deaths were reported across Niigata, Akita, and Aomori due to snow related accidents.
• Snow depths reached up to 4.5 meters in rural areas, overwhelming emergency services.

Heavy snowfall along the coast of the sea of Japan has resulted in at least 30 fatalities over the past two weeks, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.

The deaths, occurring since January 20, 2026, are mainly linked to snow related accidents, including suffocation from falling snow and injuries sustained during removal efforts.

Regions such as Niigata, Akita, and Aomori prefectures have been the hardest hit, with accumulations far exceeding typical levels, creating hazardous conditions for residents, especially the elderly.

Fatalities and Injuries

Niigata Prefecture reported 12 deaths, Akita six, and Aomori four, with additional cases in Hokkaido, Yamagata, Nagano, and Shimane. In total, 324 individuals have sustained injuries related to the snowfall, putting significant strain on local emergency services. Many victims were engaged in snow clearing when accidents occurred, highlighting the risks of manual labor in extreme winter conditions.

Tragic Individual Cases

A notable incident involved 91-year-old Kina Jin, whose body was found under a three-meter pile of snow outside her home in Ajigasawa, Aomori Prefecture. Authorities believe snow fell from her rooftop while she was shoveling, leading to suffocation. An aluminum shovel found nearby supports this assessment.

Local police warned that areas beneath rooftops pose severe dangers as temperatures rise and snow begins to melt.

Another fatality occurred in Mogami, Yamagata Prefecture, where an 85-year-old woman fell into a waterway during snow removal on February 2, 2026, later dying in hospital. These events underscore the vulnerabilities faced by isolated residents in rural areas, where snow depths in some parts of Aomori have reached 4.5 meters, overwhelming local resources.

Weather Conditions and Forecast

The extreme weather is caused by a persistent cold air mass, producing snowfall volumes more than double the seasonal average. The Japan Meteorological Agency recorded a cumulative 333 centimeters in Sumon, Uonuma, Niigata Prefecture, between January 21 and February 2, 2026. While pressure patterns eased temporarily on February 2.

Government Response

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi convened a special cabinet meeting on February 3, 2026, directing ministers to implement measures preventing further deaths and accidents. She urged the public to follow weather alerts and safety protocols.

Aomori Governor Sōichirō Miyashita requested military assistance for disaster relief, leading to troops helping elderly residents with snow removal and other essential tasks.

Safety Warnings

The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued alerts for avalanches, falling snow from roofs, and potential building collapses due to accumulated weight. Authorities emphasize caution during snow clearance, particularly as warming temperatures increase the risk of sudden snow slides. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further loss of life during this unprecedented winter event.