As a result of record snowfall affecting the northeastern regions of Japan, at least 28 people have died, and nearly 300 have been injured, according to data from local authorities collected by the TASS agency.
The highest number of casualties has been recorded in the Niigata (12 people), Akita (8 people), and Hokkaido (5 people) prefectures. Fatalities have also occurred in the Yamagata and Aomori prefectures.
Among the deceased are individuals who fell from roofs while clearing snow, as well as those who felt unwell while clearing roads and pathways. The statistics also include cases of exacerbation of chronic illnesses and other causes related to the snowfalls.
In recent days, heavy snowfalls have affected several Japanese prefectures, primarily Niigata, Hokkaido, Akita, and Yamagata.
According to meteorologists' forecasts, the snowfalls will continue over the next 24 hours. It is expected that by the morning of January 31, an additional 70 cm of snow will fall in Niigata Prefecture, and up to 50 cm in the northeastern regions of Honshu Island.
The inclement weather may lead to disruptions in public transport services. Japanese airlines are urging passengers to stay updated on flight information, particularly Japan Airlines, which has already canceled five of its flights.
