The highest number of casualties has been reported in the northwestern part of Niigata Prefecture, where 17 people have died and more than 170 have been injured. The situation remains critical in cities such as Aomori and Wakkanai, where many vehicles have been trapped due to the snow.
Additionally, the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued a warning about new heavy snowfall expected this coming weekend in the western and northern coastal areas of the country. Residents have been urged to exercise caution and consider potential transportation issues, as well as the danger of avalanches in areas with intense precipitation.
These warnings have come amid preparations for the general elections scheduled for Sunday.
