Japan snow death toll rises
- 12 years ago
It may look picturesque, but this deluge of snow is wreaking havoc in Japan.
The death toll from the blizzard this winter is now at least 82.
Many of the casualties were crushed to death by snow falling on them from buildings, while some slipped from rooftops while trying to clear the snow.
Here in Niigata prefecture, around 65 centimetres has fallen in last 24 hours alone.
Some cities are recording over three metres of snow piled up.
The severe weather has taken its toll on residents who say they are exhausted from clearing snow every day for at least month.
Prefectural governments encouraged officials to take leave and will ask companies to encourage staff to take holidays to assist with snow removal.
The Japanese weather agency has forecast more heavy snow through until at least Friday, with the possibility of more in the coming days.
Simon Hanna, Reuters.
The death toll from the blizzard this winter is now at least 82.
Many of the casualties were crushed to death by snow falling on them from buildings, while some slipped from rooftops while trying to clear the snow.
Here in Niigata prefecture, around 65 centimetres has fallen in last 24 hours alone.
Some cities are recording over three metres of snow piled up.
The severe weather has taken its toll on residents who say they are exhausted from clearing snow every day for at least month.
Prefectural governments encouraged officials to take leave and will ask companies to encourage staff to take holidays to assist with snow removal.
The Japanese weather agency has forecast more heavy snow through until at least Friday, with the possibility of more in the coming days.
Simon Hanna, Reuters.