Persistent heavy snowfall driven by winter pressure patterns has hit many parts of Japan in recent days, leaving at least 14 people dead and 198 others injured nationwide, the country’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency said.
As of Friday morning, Niigata prefecture recorded the highest death toll with seven fatalities, followed by Akita prefecture with three. One death each was reported in Hokkaido, Aomori, Yamagata and Shimane prefectures.
According to fire authorities, many of the deaths occurred during snow-removal operations.
Rail services have been severely affected by the heavy snowfall.
JR Hokkaido said more than 1,400 train services were suspended over three consecutive days starting Jan 25, affecting about 414,000 passengers.
Snowfall is expected to continue in affected areas into next week, and the weather agency urged residents to remain alert. — Xinhua
