Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency has reported at least 45 deaths and more than 500 injuries from the snow since January 20, and Japan is bracing for more heavy snowfall over the weekend.
The northwest of Niigata Prefecture had the highest death toll at 17, with more than 170 injured.
Heavy snow fell in Aomori and Wakkanai cities, leaving many vehicles stranded in the snow.
The Japan Meteorological Agency is warning of further heavy snowfall along the western and northern coasts over the weekend.
The agency urged local residents to be wary of traffic disruptions and avalanches in heavy snowfall areas from northern to western Japan.
The warning comes as Japan prepares for Sunday’s general election.