Japan's record-breaking snowfall has claimed dozens of lives as the country struggles to cope with the harsh winter conditions. The past two weeks have seen a significant increase in snow-related deaths, with 35 fatalities reported since January 20th. Almost 400 people have been injured, with over 126 of them seriously hurt.
Most of the victims fell while trying to clear snow from their homes or roofs, highlighting the dangers of attempting to tackle heavy snowfall on one's own. Foreign travelers have also fallen victim to the treacherous conditions, including a 27-year-old Australian man who died after collapsing and falling while skiing in Hokkaido. Another incident involving a backpack getting caught in a ski lift has claimed the life of a 22-year-old woman from Queensland.
The snowfall has been particularly severe in areas near the Sea of Japan, with some regions experiencing depths of over 6 feet (2 meters). The extreme weather has left thousands without electricity and disrupted public transportation services. Emergency responders are finding it increasingly difficult to reach stranded individuals due to blocked roads, with local officials warning that warmer temperatures may trigger further accidents.
As the snow begins to melt, officials are urging people to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Japan's government spokesperson has advised wearing helmets or using lifeline ropes when clearing snow, particularly in areas prone to avalanches. While snow-related deaths are not uncommon in Japan, this winter's extreme weather has been particularly hazardous.
The country's experience with snow-related incidents is well-documented, with 68 fatalities reported over the past six winter months last year. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Japan's residents must be cautious and prepared for the remaining days of harsh winter conditions.
Most of the victims fell while trying to clear snow from their homes or roofs, highlighting the dangers of attempting to tackle heavy snowfall on one's own. Foreign travelers have also fallen victim to the treacherous conditions, including a 27-year-old Australian man who died after collapsing and falling while skiing in Hokkaido. Another incident involving a backpack getting caught in a ski lift has claimed the life of a 22-year-old woman from Queensland.
The snowfall has been particularly severe in areas near the Sea of Japan, with some regions experiencing depths of over 6 feet (2 meters). The extreme weather has left thousands without electricity and disrupted public transportation services. Emergency responders are finding it increasingly difficult to reach stranded individuals due to blocked roads, with local officials warning that warmer temperatures may trigger further accidents.
As the snow begins to melt, officials are urging people to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Japan's government spokesperson has advised wearing helmets or using lifeline ropes when clearing snow, particularly in areas prone to avalanches. While snow-related deaths are not uncommon in Japan, this winter's extreme weather has been particularly hazardous.
The country's experience with snow-related incidents is well-documented, with 68 fatalities reported over the past six winter months last year. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Japan's residents must be cautious and prepared for the remaining days of harsh winter conditions.
I mean, I get it, snow is serious business, but 35 deaths already? That's insane! You gotta wonder what people are thinking trying to tackle that much snow on their own... like, come on guys, use some common sense, call a professional if you need help 
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. I'm not saying it's anyone's fault, but seriously, how hard is it to look up some info on snow safety before heading out into the wilderness?
I mean, I've lived in Japan long enough to know that the people there are super prepared, but still, this is extreme weather we're talking about here. What if warmer temps don't come soon enough? 
. 400 people injured, dozens dead...what's the point of even having a ski season if you're just gonna end up as a snow-body (sorry not sorry 
This is crazy! I'm literally shaking my head thinking about all those people who lost their lives trying to tackle that snow on their own 
They're saying wear helmets or use lifeline ropes, but honestly, I think they need to say it louder... like, multiple times 
A 6-foot snowdrift is wild, btw! 
I hope the government's advice gets through to everyone. We can't stress this enough: winter safety is key 
that's so sad ! 
400 people injured 
is a lot . i feel bad for the ppl who lost their lives trying to shovel snow alone 
! and australia guy who died skiing 
poor dude . warming up now might make it worse 
️ stay safe japan 
oh my gosh this is just so sad 
and then there's foreign travelers getting caught up in all this too... poor guy died while skiing in hokkaido 
it's just not worth losing your life over a little bit of snow, you know? 
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. I mean, wearing a helmet when clearing snow? It's not that hard, right? 
And what's with the backpack getting caught in a ski lift? That's like, basic common sense failure... like, don't even try to do that stuff on your own, guys!