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Japan Deploys Troops as Heavy Snow Death Toll Reaches 30

Officials warn of imminent roof-shedding hazards threatening isolated elderly residents.

Overview

  • The Fire and Disaster Management Agency reports 30 deaths linked to the snowfall from Jan 20 to Feb 3.
  • The central government has sent troops to Aomori to clear snow and assist people who live alone.
  • Aomori governor Soichiro Miyashita requested military disaster relief on Feb 2, citing overwhelmed local crews.
  • Snow depths remain extreme, reaching up to 4.5 meters in remote areas and forming 1.8-meter walls in Aomori city, officials say.
  • Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi convened a Cabinet meeting on Feb 3 instructing ministers to prevent further accidents as melting roof snow poses lethal risks.