Tokyo: Almost three weeks of heavy snowfall has killed 46 people and injured 558 others in Japan, according to data from the Fire and Disaster Management Agency showed Tuesday. Continued snowfall since late January has buried northern communities and caused traffic chaos, particularly along the coast facing the Sea of Japan.
According to Emirates News Agency, many fatal accidents happened when mounds of snow fell on residents from roofs or people tumbled while trying to clear it, according to police and local officials. The severe weather conditions have resulted in a significant number of injuries and fatalities, highlighting the challenges faced by residents in affected areas.
In the northern regional hub of Aomori, residents are having to deal with 1.3 metres (more than 4 feet) of snow on the ground, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The persistent snowfall has disrupted daily life, creating hazardous conditions and prompting local authorities to issue warnings and advisories to help ensure public safety.