Osaka in the headlines after a bizarre “pipe burst” mystery and regional happenings; Japan’s third-largest city, capital of Osaka Prefecture.
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.
A large steel pipe at a sewer construction site in Osaka unexpectedly shot up 42 feet overnight, baffling workers and residents. Firefighters lowered it back to ground level after cutting into it. The incident caused road closures and traffic delays, with officials planning further removal operations.