AOMORI, Japan: The death toll from prolonged heavy snowfall across Japan has risen to 46, while at least 558 people have been injured, according to fresh figures released on Tuesday by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
Nearly three weeks of persistent snowfall since late January have blanketed large parts of northern Japan, severely affecting daily life and triggering widespread disruption.
Communities along the coast facing the Sea of Japan have been particularly hard hit, with heavy snow accumulation causing traffic paralysis and blocking major roads.
Police and local officials said many of the fatalities occurred during efforts to clear snow, as large masses fell from rooftops onto residents or people lost their balance and fell while removing snow from homes and public areas.
In Aomori, a major regional hub in northern Japan, residents are grappling with exceptionally heavy snow levels, according to AFP.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that snow depth in the city has reached approximately 1.3 metres — more than four feet — making movement difficult and placing added strain on emergency services.
Authorities have urged residents to exercise extreme caution during snow removal operations as cold weather conditions persist and further snowfall remains possible in affected regions.
