Record-breaking snowfall in Japan has led to 46 deaths and widespread travel disruption, officials confirmed. The heavy snow, which has blanketed northern regions since 20 January, has also injured nearly 400 people, 126 seriously. Most fatalities occurred when people fell while clearing snow from roofs.
Among the dead are two Australian tourists: Michael Hurst, 27, from Melbourne, who died while skiing at Niseko in Hokkaido; and Brooke Day, 22, from Queensland, who died after her backpack got caught in a ski lift in Nagano prefecture.
The snowfall, caused by Arctic air masses, has affected 15 of Japan's 47 prefectures, with depths reaching up to 2 metres in some areas. Over 1,700 homes lost power in Aomori prefecture, and train services, including bullet trains, were cancelled.
Authorities warned that melting snow could trigger avalanches and slippery surfaces. Chief government spokesperson Minoru Kihara urged caution, advising the use of helmets and lifelines during snow clearing. Last year, 68 people died in snow-related incidents over six months.
