Record Snowfall in Japan Claims 30 Lives, Military Deployed
TOKYO – Unusually heavy snow across Japan has resulted in at least 30 deaths over the past two weeks, officials reported on . The fatalities include a 91-year-old woman found buried under approximately three meters of snow outside her home in Aomori prefecture.
The Japanese government has taken the unprecedented step of deploying Self-Defense Forces to Aomori, the region hardest hit by the extreme weather. This marks the first time in 21 years that the military has been called upon for disaster relief in the prefecture. In some remote areas, snow accumulation has reached 4.5 meters, hindering rescue and relief efforts.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi convened a special cabinet-level meeting on morning to direct ministers to prioritize preventing further deaths and accidents. The government is focused on supporting residents and mitigating the ongoing risks posed by the record snowfall.
A powerful cold air mass has brought sustained heavy snowfall to areas along the Sea of Japan coast in recent weeks, with some locations receiving more than double their typical snowfall amounts. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency has confirmed the deaths of 30 individuals between and .
One of the victims, identified as Kina Jin, 91, was discovered under a substantial pile of snow at her home in Ajigasawa, Aomori. A local police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that snow likely fell from her rooftop, causing her death by suffocation. An aluminum shovel was found near her body.
“As it gets warmer, the accumulated snow melts and falls. It depends on the volume (of snow) and the temperature. Under the rooftop is a dangerous place,” the police official explained.
Aomori Governor Soichiro Miyashita formally requested assistance from Japan’s military on , specifically requesting support for elderly residents who live alone and require assistance with snow removal. He highlighted the overwhelming challenges faced by local workers attempting to clear roads and homes.
“The danger of life-threatening incidents, such as fatal accidents due to falling snow from the roofs or collapsing buildings, is imminent,” Governor Miyashita warned during a press conference. He reported that snowdrifts as high as 1.8 meters are present in the regional capital of Aomori city.
The ongoing crisis is unfolding as Japan prepares for a midwinter election, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. The government’s response to the snowstorm and its impact on residents are likely to be key issues during the campaign.
