What's happened
As of mid-February 2026, northern Japan endures record snowfall with up to 2 meters of snow, causing at least 35 deaths and nearly 400 injuries since late January. The government deployed Self-Defense Forces to assist with snow removal amid ongoing risks of roof collapses and accidents. The heavy snow disrupts daily life and may impact the upcoming general election.
What's behind the headline?
Impact of Record Snowfall on Japan's Society and Politics
- The unprecedented snowfall has overwhelmed northern prefectures, with Aomori recording its highest snow accumulation since 1986, reaching 183 cm.
- Fatalities primarily result from falls during snow removal and roof collapses, highlighting the dangers faced by residents, especially the elderly.
- The deployment of Self-Defense Forces underscores the severity and scale of the crisis, reflecting government prioritization of disaster response.
- The snowstorm's timing complicates the political landscape, as Japan prepares for a rare midwinter general election, potentially affecting voter turnout and campaign activities.
- The heavy snow exposes vulnerabilities in infrastructure and emergency preparedness, pressing authorities to improve future resilience.
- The ongoing cold and forecasted additional snowfall suggest that risks and disruptions will persist, requiring sustained attention.
This crisis will likely influence public perception of government effectiveness in disaster management and could impact political dynamics in the upcoming election. Residents must remain vigilant as melting snow raises risks of landslides and further accidents.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that "Japan is known for wintry deluges," but this winter's snowfall has "buried some people in their homes" and caused "deadly accidents," with 30 deaths since January 20, including a man whose home collapsed under snow in Niigata Prefecture (Isabella Kwai, The New York Times). The Japan Times highlights the government's deployment of Self-Defense Forces to assist elderly residents and clear snow, noting Aomori's record-breaking 183 cm accumulation and warnings about life-threatening incidents from falling snow and collapsing buildings. NHK and Al Jazeera emphasize the imminent dangers, quoting Aomori Governor Soichiro Miyashita: "The danger of life-threatening incidents... is imminent." Reuters and The Independent detail the widespread impact across 15 prefectures, with 393 injuries and 14 homes damaged, while cautioning about melting snow causing landslides. The Japan Times and Reuters also discuss the potential political impact, noting the upcoming general election amid these harsh conditions, with concerns about voter turnout and campaigning disruptions. Together, these sources provide a comprehensive picture of a severe natural disaster intersecting with political challenges in Japan.
How we got here
Japan regularly experiences heavy winter snowfall, especially in northern and western coastal regions. This year, persistent snow since late January has broken 40-year records in places like Aomori, leading to fatal accidents and widespread disruption. The government has mobilized military support to aid snow clearance amid concerns over safety and infrastructure.
Go deeper
- How is the government responding to the heavy snowfall?
- What impact is the snow having on Japan's upcoming election?
- Which regions in Japan are most affected by the snowstorm?
Common question
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Why Is Japan Experiencing Record Snowfall and How Are Authorities Responding?
Japan is currently facing an unprecedented winter crisis with record-breaking snowfall causing fatalities, infrastructure damage, and travel disruptions. This severe weather has prompted emergency responses from authorities, including deploying troops and issuing safety warnings. If you're wondering what's behind this extreme weather, how Japan is managing the crisis, and what safety tips to follow, you've come to the right place. Below, we answer the most common questions about this winter emergency and what it means for Japan's future.
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What’s the latest on extreme weather events and their impact?
Recent weather patterns have brought record-breaking snowfalls and deep freezes across the globe, affecting millions. From Japan's severe snow crisis to ongoing cold snaps in New York City, these events raise questions about their severity, risks, and links to climate change. Below, we explore the most common questions about these extreme weather events and what they mean for us all.
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What’s the latest on Japan’s deadly snowstorm and how is it being handled?
Japan is currently facing a severe winter crisis with record-breaking snowfall causing fatalities, injuries, and widespread disruptions. People are asking what’s happening, how authorities are responding, and what safety measures they should take. Below, we answer the most common questions about this extreme weather event and its impact on Japan’s society and infrastructure.
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What Are the Key International News Stories Today?
Stay updated with the latest global headlines shaping our world today. From severe winter storms in Japan to geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle East, these stories highlight the major events and trends across the globe. Curious about how different regions are responding to crises or how these stories connect to larger global patterns? Keep reading for a comprehensive roundup of today's top international news.
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How Severe Are the Current Weather Events in Japan and Europe?
Recent weather events across Japan and Europe have been extraordinary, with Japan facing a deadly snowstorm and Europe experiencing severe flooding. These events raise questions about their severity, causes, and safety measures. Below, we explore the impact of these storms, their connection to climate change, and what residents should do to stay safe during such extreme conditions.
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How Does Misinformation and Climate Change Impact Our World Today?
In recent news, we've seen how political misinformation and extreme weather events are shaping our society. From false videos spreading hate to record-breaking snowstorms and floods, these issues raise important questions. How does misinformation influence public opinion? Are climate events becoming more frequent? And what can we do to stay safe? Explore these questions and more below.
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What Are the Biggest Stories in Global Politics and Natural Disasters Right Now?
Stay informed with the latest updates on global politics and natural disasters. From controversial political videos to severe weather events, these stories are shaping the world today. Curious about how different countries are responding or what might happen next? Read on for answers to your most pressing questions.
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