Heavy Snowfalls in Japan Claim 17 Lives

Last week, heavy snowfalls in the northern and western regions of Japan claimed the lives of 17 people, with 110 others injured. Snow has been falling since December 17 in the country's west, particularly along the northern coast of the Sea of Japan.

Most deaths or injuries have resulted from snow removal activities on roofs near homes or private properties. The heavy snowfall has also led to power outages. In Niigata Prefecture, nearly 1,000 homes have been without electricity for the ninth consecutive day.