Record-breaking snowfall causes devastation in Japan, leaving dozens dead and injured

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0 February 4, 2026 00:50

Record-breaking snowfall in parts of Japan over the last two weeks has left at least 30 people dead and more than 100 seriously injured in snow-related incidents. Troops were deployed to assist in clearing snow across northern and western regions, where some areas along the Sea of Japan saw more than double the usual levels of snowfall.

Aomori was among the hardest-hit areas, with snow depth reaching 4.5 metres in remote communities. In Sapporo, Hokkaido’s largest city, around 1,000 snow plows were deployed to clear roads. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has instructed ministers to do everything possible to prevent further deaths and accidents. Many local schools were closed, and public transport services were suspended in some areas. Residents have been cautioned about the risk of building collapses and avalanches during removal work. https://cna.asia/3O0hH47