Heavy snowfall across Japan since Jan. 20 has left 35 people dead and 358 injured nationwide, the country's Fire and Disaster Management Agency said on Wednesday.
Casualties have been reported in multiple prefectures, including Niigata, Akita, Yamagata, Hokkaido and Aomori. Niigata Prefecture on the Sea of Japan coast has been the hardest hit, reporting 12 deaths as of Wednesday.
According to fire authorities, many of the deaths occurred during snow-removal operations, including falls from rooftops, and sudden illnesses at work or during breaks.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said a persistent winter pressure pattern has brought heavy snowfall mainly on the Sea of Japan side of northern and western Japan. Public broadcaster NHK reported that snow accumulation in parts of Aomori Prefecture has exceeded 4.3 meters, while some areas in Niigata have recorded nearly 3 meters of snowfall.
Kyodo News said the severe weather has also damaged 14 residential buildings. As temperatures have risen in wide areas across Japan, authorities continue to warn residents to remain vigilant against avalanches, snow falling from roofs and traffic disruptions. (Xinhua)
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