In Japan Death toll from extreme snowfalls has reached 46 people. More 558 people received injuries of varying severity. Units involved in eliminating the consequences of the disaster Japanese Self Defense Forces.
Due to prolonged snowfalls in the northern regions of the country, snowdrifts of many meters form, which leads to serious accidents. According to local media, in some cases the bodies of the dead were found only several days later, because they were completely covered with snow.
According to information from Japanese authorities, a significant part of the tragedies occurred due to the melting of snow from the roofs of buildings. In the affected areas, cases of houses collapsing under the weight of snow have also been recorded.
Extreme rainfall has continued since late January. In the country’s northern prefectures, snowfalls have reached levels not seen in recent decades.
In cities Aomori And Ajigasawa The snow depth this winter has exceeded one meter. In some areas, snow masses up to 4.5 meters.
Governor of Aomori Prefecture Soichiro Miyashita admitted that local services cannot cope with clearing streets, residential buildings and railway tracks.
In early February, regional authorities officially turned to the army for help. After this, units of the Self-Defense Forces were involved in the work.
Military personnel are involved in snow removal, food delivery and assistance to the population, paying special attention to the elderly and lonely people.
Authorities warn that the danger remains as snow continues to fall in some areas. Residents are advised to exercise caution and avoid being near building roofs if possible.
The situation remains under the control of the government, but experts do not rule out that the consequences of this winter will be felt for several more months.
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