Deadly Winter Storm Grips Japan, Leaving 45 Dead and Hundreds Injured

Heavy Snowfall Causes Widespread Devastation

A powerful winter storm has brought record-breaking snowfall to Japan, leading to a significant loss of life and widespread disruption across the northern regions of the country. Since January 20, the severe weather has claimed the lives of at least 45 people and left nearly 600 individuals injured. The relentless snow has also caused extensive power outages, affecting over 1,700 homes, and severely hampered transportation networks.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported that 585 people have sustained injuries of varying severity, with 187 individuals seriously wounded. Many of the fatalities and injuries occurred as residents attempted to clear heavy snow from their roofs and surroundings, with several victims falling or suffering fatal medical emergencies during these strenuous tasks.

Affected Regions and Snowfall Records

The extreme weather has impacted 15 of Japan's 47 prefectures, with northern Japan bearing the brunt of the storm. Among the hardest-hit areas are:

• Niigata Prefecture: Recorded the highest number of fatalities with 17 deaths.
• Aomori Prefecture: Experienced snow depths exceeding 4.6 meters (15 feet) in some areas.
• Hokkaido: Its capital, Sapporo, saw snow accumulation of over 1.1 meters (3.6 feet).

Overall, snow depths have reached up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) in various affected regions, marking one of the heaviest snowfalls in recent years.

Transportation and Infrastructure Paralysis

The heavy snowfall has led to significant transportation disruptions, paralyzing movement across affected areas. Both regular and bullet train services have been canceled, and numerous roads remain blocked, severely hindering emergency response efforts. Road closures have been reported on major routes like the Hokuriku Expressway and mountain passes, while regional airports have experienced delays and cancellations. In Aomori City, snowdrifts have buried rail tracks and narrowed streets, forcing medical workers to conduct rescue operations on foot in some instances.

Official Response and Future Warnings

In response to the crisis, Japan's chief government spokesperson, Minoru Kihara, urged the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution when clearing snow, recommending safety measures such as wearing helmets or using lifeline ropes. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi convened a special cabinet meeting and ordered the deployment of troops to assist in clearing snow drifts in affected areas. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued warnings for further heavy snow in coastal regions and has cautioned residents about the increased risk of avalanches in mountainous areas as temperatures begin to rise and snow melts.