Japan is battling its worst winter disaster of 2026 after relentless snowfall claimed 30 lives and injured 324 people since January 20. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency confirmed the toll spans eight prefectures, with Niigata bearing the brunt – 12 deaths and 97 injuries reported as roofs collapsed and residents were buried during snow-clearing efforts.
❄️ Niigata: The Epicenter of the Crisis
Tokamachi City saw snow depths hit a staggering 255 cm this week – taller than most basketball hoops! 🏀 Local authorities have activated emergency protocols, warning residents: "Every rooftop shoveled could become a life-or-death gamble." The prefecture has deployed disaster response teams as forecasts predict more snow.
🌨️ Aomori’s Snowfall Surge
In northeastern Japan, Aomori Prefecture recorded 183 cm of snow – nearly triple its annual average. "We’re racing against time to prevent roof collapses," said a local official, as teams work round-the-clock to clear overloaded structures.
⚠️ Safety Alert: The Japanese government urges citizens to avoid solo snow removal and use harnesses when working at heights. With temperatures expected to plunge further this week, the crisis shows no signs of melting away.
