Public life across Japan has been paralyzed by intense snowstorms, with nearly 30 fatalities reported so far. Officials said Tuesday that the victims include a 91-year-old woman who was found outside her home after being buried under nearly three meters of snow.
The central government has deployed military personnel to assist residents of Aomori, the hardest-hit and remote northern region, where snow accumulation has reached up to 4.5 meters (15 feet). Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi convened a special cabinet-level meeting on Tuesday morning, directing ministers to take all possible measures to prevent further deaths and accidents.
In recent weeks, strong cold winds blowing in from the Sea of Japan have triggered exceptionally heavy snowfall. Several areas have recorded more than double the usual seasonal levels. According to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, 30 people have died as a result of snow-related incidents between 20 January and Tuesday.
A local police officer, speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity, said that among the victims was 91-year-old Kina Jin, whose body was discovered beneath accumulated snow at her home in Ajigasawa, Aomori. Police believe snow may have fallen from her roof and overwhelmed her. The officer noted that she appeared to have died due to suffocation. A metal shovel was found beside her.
“As temperatures rise, accumulated snow begins to melt and fall. The timing and risk depend on the volume of snow and the weather conditions. Areas directly beneath roofs can be especially dangerous,” the officer added.
Aomori Governor Soichiro Miyashita said Monday that he had requested disaster relief support from Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. He explained that soldiers have been asked to assist elderly residents who live alone and are unable to clear heavy snow on their own.
“In Aomori City, walls of snow up to 1.8 meters high have formed on the streets,” the governor said. “Several local workers were trapped while attempting to clear snow from roads and homes.”
Sources: AFP, Arab News, Japan News.