According to statistics from Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency as of the 4th, the extreme snowfall since January 20th has caused 35 deaths and 393 injuries across Japan.
The Japanese government has issued a warning that rising temperatures may trigger avalanches.
The government warns that the northern regions have endured two consecutive weeks of heavy snow, leading to paralyzed transportation and house collapses. With sudden temperature increases, avalanches may occur.
At a press conference, Japanese Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki said: "We urge affected residents to be extremely careful and watch out for falling snow and avalanches."
Since late January, continuous snowfall has resulted in snow accumulation as high as about 2 meters in northern towns like Aomori, making it difficult for residents to go out, forcing schools and businesses to close. However, on the 4th, temperatures rose in Aomori, reaching 8 degrees Celsius at one point, and officials warned that the risk of heavy, wet snow falling off roofs has increased, potentially causing injuries or deaths.
Many accidents have occurred when snow fell from rooftops and hit residents, or when people accidentally fell from roofs while clearing snow. The Japanese government has deployed Self-Defense Forces to help clear the massive snow in northern regions.
In addition, weather forecasts warn that from the weekend, another cold wave will hit, and northern Japanese cities may face a new round of snowfall.