The Japanese government has warned residents in the northern region to be cautious of avalanches after a sudden rise in temperatures, which is causing snow accumulated over two weeks to begin melting. Meanwhile, the nationwide death toll has risen to at least 35.
On 5 Feb 2026 GMT+7, the Japanese government issued avalanche warnings for several northern areas after temperatures rose rapidly following over two weeks of continuous heavy snowstorms. The severe weather caused transportation paralysis, house collapses, and a rising death toll.
Masano Osaki, Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet of Japan, said during a press conference that residents in affected areas should exercise increased caution, especially regarding dangers from falling snow and avalanches in many northern communities. In particular, Aomori Prefecture has faced over two meters of accumulated snow since late January, preventing many people from leaving their homes and forcing temporary closures of schools and businesses. However, last Wednesday, temperatures in Aomori spiked to 8 degrees Celsius, increasing the risk of heavy, wet snow falling from roofs or avalanches on slopes, which could cause injuries or fatalities.
Meanwhile, accumulated snow in Aomori City dropped below 1.6 meters for the first time in four days, but traffic conditions remain chaotic. Local media showed images of people walking along narrow paths dug through snow walls twice their height.
In Niigata Prefecture, located on the Sea of Japan coast, reports confirmed at least two additional deaths: one person was found dead inside a house that collapsed under the weight of snow, and another died after a garage collapsed.
According to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency of Japan, since 20 Jan 2026, heavy snowfall has claimed at least 35 lives and injured 393 people nationwide. Many incidents involved avalanches from house roofs or people falling from roofs while trying to clear snow. The Japanese government has deployed Self-Defense Forces to assist with snow removal in northern areas. The Meteorological Agency has also warned that cold weather will return over the weekend, possibly causing a new round of heavy snowfall.
Source: Japan Times