US EditionHeavy Snowfall Along Sea of Japan Coast Claims at Least 30 Lives
At least 30 deaths and nearly 400 injuries were reported due to roof collapses and falls during snow removal, prompting troop deployment to assist overwhelmed northern regions.
- On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, the central government ordered troops to assist snow-hit areas after at least 30 people died in two weeks of heavy snowfall.
- A persistent Arctic cold air mass dumped heavy snow along the Sea of Japan coast, affecting 15 prefectures with up to 2m accumulations in worst-hit areas as of Wednesday.
- Rescue teams reported fatalities, including Kina Jin, 91, found under snow; Soichiro Miyashita warned `the snow is so heavy around the regional government building that even our staff cannot convene.`
- Transport services were widely suspended, including major airports and many train lines, while about 1,000 snow plows cleared 3,800 km of roads and more than 1,700 homes lost electricity.
- More heavy snow is forecast for the coming weekend, officials warned melting snow could cause landslides and slippery surfaces, and task forces in Niigata and nearby regions remain active amid the February 8 snap election.
112 Articles
112 Articles
Heavy snowfall hits Japan: 35 dead and 400 injured, more intense snowfall expected over the weekend.
The Batesville Daily Guard
VINnewsHeavy snow in northern Japan blocks roads and causes dozens of deaths
Heavy snow in northern Japan has blocked roads and caused dozens of deaths nationwide. As of Wednesday, 15 prefectures have been affected, with snow reaching up to 6.5 feet in some areas. The snowfall is due to a cold air…
Oskaloosa Herald
Northern Japan hit by deadly snowfall, as warnings issued on more heavy snow
Heavy snow battering northern Japan in the last two weeks is being blamed in 35 deaths nationwide so far, including people suffering sudden heart attacks or slipping while shoveling snow. As of Wednesday, 15 prefectures have been affected, with the…
Associated Press News
Northern Japan hit by heavy snowfall, as warnings issued for more
Heavy snow piling up in northern Japan in the last two weeks is being blamed in a dozen deaths nationwide, including people suffering heart attacks or falls while shoveling snow.
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