Government officials in Japan have confirmed that at least 35 people have been killed following weeks of relentless heavy snowfall across the country. The death toll is expected to rise as more severe weather conditions are forecast for the upcoming weekend, heightening concerns among authorities and residents alike.
Widespread Impact and Injuries
In addition to the fatalities, nearly 400 individuals have sustained injuries, with 126 of these cases classified as serious. The northern and central regions of Japan have borne the brunt of the devastation, with over a dozen properties reported as damaged. As of Wednesday, 15 prefectures have been affected, with snow accumulations in some areas estimated to have reached up to 2 metres (6.5 feet).
Causes of Fatalities and Injuries
Most of the deaths and injuries have resulted from falls as people attempted to clear snow from their homes. There have also been tragic incidents of sudden heart attacks linked to the strenuous activity. For instance, in Uonuma city, Niigata prefecture, a man in his 50s was found collapsed on the roof of his home, while in Nagaoka city, a man in his 70s is believed to have died after falling from his roof.
Government Response and Warnings
Task forces have been established and deployed to the worst-hit regions to assist with relief efforts. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara has issued urgent safety advice, urging residents to wear helmets and use lifeline ropes when clearing snow to prevent further accidents.
Risks of Melting Snow
Although temperatures are beginning to rise, officials have warned that the melting snow could trigger landslides, posing an additional threat to communities. This adds another layer of danger to an already critical situation, as the combination of heavy snowfall and subsequent thawing creates unstable ground conditions.
Historical Context and Unclear Causes
The exact reason behind this period of intense snowfall remains unclear, but snow-related deaths and accidents are not uncommon in Japan. According to the country's Fire and Disaster Management Agency, during the six winter months of the previous year, 68 people lost their lives due to similar weather-related incidents.
This ongoing crisis underscores the severe impact of extreme winter weather in Japan, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preparedness as the nation braces for more snowfall and its aftermath.
