Japan snowstorm kills 46, Omori records 80-year high
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- Heavy snow in Japan kills 46 and injures 558, including critical cases.
- Northern regions face historic accumulation, traffic chaos, and risk of avalanches.
Japan is reeling after nearly three weeks of heavy snowfall left 46 people dead and 558 injured, including critical cases, according to the latest official figures released Monday. The relentless snow, which began accumulating in late January, has brought daily life to a standstill, particularly in northern regions and along the Sea of Japan coast, burying entire communities under thick white layers.
Fatal Accidents on Roofs
Japanese police reported that most fatalities occurred during attempts to clear snow from rooftops, especially by elderly residents, who fell or were buried by sudden collapses of massive snow loads.
Highways were gridlocked, leaving thousands of vehicles stranded and forcing the Self-Defense Forces to step in and provide emergency assistance.
Omori Records Historic Accumulation
In Omori Prefecture, the regional hub in the north, the Japan Meteorological Agency reported snow depths of 1.3 meters in urban areas, with rural and mountainous regions exceeding four meters.
Meteorologists say this wave is the heaviest the region has experienced in decades, breaking snowfall records not seen since 1945, roughly 80 years ago.
Warnings on Avalanches and Power Outages
Authorities warn of additional risks as temperatures fluctuate, including avalanches from melting lower layers and power outages due to heavy snow on supply lines. Local officials continue to urge residents to exercise extreme caution and go outdoors only when absolutely necessary.
