Deadly Snowfall in Northern Japan: A Humanitarian Crisis

Northern Japan has been grappling with an unprecedented winter storm since January 20, 2026, resulting in at least 35 confirmed deaths and nearly 400 injuries across 15 prefectures. The extreme weather has led to snow accumulation reaching up to 2 meters (approximately 6.5 feet) in some areas, with reports of even higher totals in remote regions. The situation has prompted the Japanese government to deploy military personnel to assist in relief efforts.

Northern Japan hit by deadly snowfall, as warnings issued on more heavy snow

The most severely impacted areas include Niigata Prefecture, where 12 fatalities have been reported, and Aomori Prefecture, which has seen significant disruptions due to heavy snow. Notable incidents include a 91-year-old woman found buried under a 3-meter pile of snow and several individuals suffering fatal accidents while attempting to clear snow from their roofs. Aomori Governor Soichiro Miyashita has been vocal about the dangers posed by falling snow and the risk of avalanches as temperatures rise.

Record-breaking snow blankets Japan, killing at least 30 peopleDeath toll from heavy Japan snow hits 30Northern Japan hit by deadly snowfall, as warnings issued on more heavy snowAt Least 35 Dead and Almost 400 Injured as 6.5 Feet of Snow Hits Japan, with Authorities Warning of Impending Avalanches

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara emphasized the importance of safety, urging residents to wear helmets and use lifelines while clearing snow. He noted, “Please do pay close attention to your safety, especially when working on clearing snow.” The government has established task forces to manage the crisis, and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi convened a cabinet meeting to ensure all necessary measures are taken to prevent further casualties.

Death toll from heavy Japan snow hits 30

Despite the government's response, some residents have expressed frustration over the slow pace of relief efforts. Aomori's infrastructure has been severely affected, with many roads blocked and public transportation halted. Medical personnel have been forced to abandon vehicles and navigate on foot to reach those in need, highlighting the challenges faced by emergency services.

At least 35 dead, hundreds injured after weeks of heavy snow

As of February 4, 2026, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported:

At least 35 dead, hundreds injured after weeks of heavy snow

• Deaths: 35

At least 35 dead, hundreds injured after weeks of heavy snow

• Injuries: 393, with 126 classified as serious

Northern Japan hit by heavy snowfall, as warnings issued for more

• Power Outages: Over 1,700 homes without electricity

At Least 35 Dead and Almost 400 Injured as 6.5 Feet of Snow Hits Japan, with Authorities Warning of Impending Avalanches

• Road Closures: Major disruptions affecting emergency services and transportation

At least 35 dead, hundreds injured after weeks of heavy snow

While the death toll has been consistently reported at 35, some sources indicate that the number of injuries may vary, with figures ranging from 290 to 393. Additionally, reports on the exact amount of snow accumulation differ, with some areas experiencing up to 4.5 meters of snow, complicating the situation further.

Northern Japan hit by deadly snowfall, as warnings issued on more heavy snow

Authorities are bracing for additional snowfall in the coming days, which could exacerbate the existing humanitarian crisis. As temperatures rise, the risk of avalanches and landslides increases, prompting ongoing warnings from officials. The government continues to mobilize resources to assist affected communities, particularly the elderly, who are most vulnerable during such extreme weather events.

Snowfalls in Japan: death toll rises to 35, snow cover exceeds 2, and in some places 4 meters

• “The danger of life-threatening incidents, such as fatal accidents due to falling snow from the roofs or collapsing buildings, is imminent,” — Soichiro Miyashita, Governor of Aomori Prefecture

Record-breaking snow blankets Japan, killing at least 30 people

• “We ask affected residents to be careful and stay mindful of falling snow and avalanches,” — Masanao Ozaki, Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary

At Least 35 People Have Died In Japan During Historic Snowfall

The situation in northern Japan remains critical as authorities work to manage the aftermath of this severe winter storm, with ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of affected residents.

Japan warns of avalanches as number of snow deaths rises to 35