At least 35 individuals have lost their lives, and approximately 400 have sustained injuries due to severe snowfall. Residents in the northern parts of Japan were cautioned on Wednesday about the potential risk of avalanches following two weeks of heavy snowfall. The sudden rise in temperature could trigger the melting of the thick layers of snow, leading to dangerous avalanches in the region, posing further threats and potential tragedies.
The northern and central regions of Japan bore the brunt of the extreme weather conditions, experiencing snow depths of up to 6.5 feet (2 meters) in the hardest-hit areas. Some areas recorded temperatures as low as -23°C.
The majority of the fatalities and injuries resulted from individuals slipping while trying to clear snow around their residences. Tragically, a man in his 60s lost his life when his house collapsed under the weight of the snow. In another incident, a man in his 50s was discovered collapsed on the roof of his house in the city of Uonuma. Additionally, a man in his 70s is presumed to have died after falling from his roof.
Reports indicate that some individuals suffered heart attacks during the extreme cold temperatures. Despite this, there is a possibility of further heavy snowfall over the upcoming weekend.
