Death toll from heavy snowfall in Japan rises to 46
Almost three weeks of heavy snowfall has killed 46 people and injured 558 others in Japan, WAM reports, citing the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
Continued snowfall since late January has buried northern communities and caused traffic chaos, particularly along the coast facing the Sea of Japan.
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.
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.
Heavy snowfall occurs in Oita, Japan 🇯🇵 (08.02.2026) pic.twitter.com/k3vjQ2iZZz
— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) February 8, 2026
JAPAN 🇯🇵 Several buildings damaged by intense snowfall in Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture. The region is experiencing "unusually heavy" snow driven by cold air from the Arctic, causing major transportation, delivery, and safety challenges. pic.twitter.com/gtBp0p2nlC
— Toria Brooke (@realtoriabrooke) February 5, 2026
“Imminent threat to life”
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) February 2, 2026
Record-breaking snowfall in Aomori, northern Japan, has left snow depths topping 1.8 metres (5.9 feet), overwhelming roads and raising fears of deadly accidents and roof collapses, prompting the Japan Ground Self-Defence Forces to begin disaster relief… pic.twitter.com/Kknt6xsKGs
Earlier, President Tokayev expressed condolences to Prime Minister of Japan over the numerous casualties caused by heavy snowfall.
