Japan is currently grappling with record-breaking snowfall that has posed significant risks to public safety and health. As the nation faces an extraordinary weather crisis, the government has mobilized military troops to assist in rescue and relief efforts, highlighting the resilience and solidarity among communities. This situation not only underscores the severe impacts of extreme weather but also illustrates Japan’s proactive measures to safeguard its citizens during such formidable challenges.
Record-breaking snowfall in Japan has resulted in tragic loss of life, with authorities reporting 30 fatalities over the past two weeks. Among the deceased is a 91-year-old woman found buried under a staggering 300 cm (118 inches) of snow outside her home. In response to this dire situation, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi ordered the deployment of troops on Tuesday to assist residents in the hardest-hit areas, as reported by Japanese national television NHK.
Officials are urging citizens to remain vigilant for avalanches and the dangers posed by accumulated snow falling from rooftops. Power outages are anticipated in the regions most affected by the extreme weather, complicating the situation further. As of Tuesday, the northern city of Aomori experienced snow accumulation of approximately 175 cm (about 69 inches), which is more than double the seasonal average. In fact, the city recorded up to 183 cm (72 inches) in certain areas, surpassing the previous record of 181 cm (71 inches) that had stood for four decades.
In light of the urgent circumstances, Aomori Governor Soichiro Miyashita has requested military support to deliver disaster relief, particularly targeting the elderly population who may require assistance with snow clearance, many of whom live alone. During a news conference, he declared that the dangers of life-threatening incidents, including accidents from falling snow or roof collapses, were imminent.
Several other cities across the region reported snow accumulation of at least 135 cm (53 inches). Between January 20 and Tuesday, the toll of human loss attributed to the heavy snowfall reached 30, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency. Tragically, the fatalities encompassed various prefectures, with reports from Niigata, Akita, Hokkaido, and Aomori detailing incidents resulting from snow removal attempts and related accidents.
In addition to the fatalities, NHK reported that 290 individuals suffered injuries—some serious—due to snow-related incidents. Meteorological officials note that certain areas of Japan are experiencing more than twice the normal snowfall this season, as an enduring cold air mass from the Arctic continues to dominate weather patterns across the Japanese archipelago.
Despite the ongoing crisis, there is uncertainty regarding its potential effects on the parliamentary elections scheduled for this Sunday. Prime Minister Takaichi convened a special cabinet-level meeting on Tuesday, instructing ministers to implement all necessary measures to prevent further loss of life and safeguard public welfare as the nation endures this challenging winter ordeal.
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