Japan reels from extreme snowfall, at least 30 people die

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Japan is facing one of its most severe winter emergencies in decades as unusually heavy snow has blanketed large parts of the country, overwhelming communities and claiming at least 30 lives over the past fortnight. Officials say the intense snowfall began around January 20 and has continued, especially along the Sea of Japan coast.

In some hard-hit areas, snow depths have reached extraordinary levels. Aomori City in northern Honshu recorded accumulations as high as 4.5 metres (about 15 feet), far surpassing typical seasonal totals and setting new records in parts of the region.

The government has taken the unusual step of deploying troops to assist with snow removal and rescue operations, particularly in Aomori Prefecture. Self-Defense Forces are helping elderly residents and others struggling to clear snow trapped around homes and streets.

Many of the deaths have been linked to accidents during snow-clearing efforts or falls from rooftops burdened by the deep drifts. In one tragic case, a 91-year-old woman was found suffocated beneath a three-metre snow pile near her home.

Local authorities and weather agencies are warning residents to remain vigilant as conditions stay hazardous. Travel has been severely disrupted with major roads closed or congested, transport services suspended, and power outages reported in remote areas.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi convened a special cabinet meeting to coordinate the government’s response and reinforce safety measures, urging communities to take precautions against avalanches, falling snow, and icy hazards.

This extraordinary snowfall comes as part of a strong winter weather pattern affecting Japan and parts of Northeast Asia and highlights ongoing challenges for emergency services during extreme weather events.

Photo credit:AFP