A severe winter storm in northern Japan has killed at least 35 people and injured close to 400 more after an extreme snowfall session arose over the past two weeks that left communities buried, blocked roads, disrupted rail services, and cut power to thousands of homes.
Snow depths reached up to 6.5 feet in some places, specifically along the Sea of Japan coast in prefectures like Niigata, Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, and Hokkaido.
Many of the deaths arose while people were clearing snow from rooftops or around their residences.
Many deaths from falls or physical exertion were reported. Officials warned that melting snow from a recent temperature rise might trigger avalanches, falling snow, and landslides. This might pose new risks for residents and emergency workers.
Government forces, including Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force, are helping with snow removal and working hard to open up major roads.
Schools have been shut, and train services, including bullet trains in some places, were suspended due to the dangerous conditions.