Japan has been hit hard by heavy snowfall that has swept the country in recent days. According to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, at least 45 people have died and more than 500 have been injured since January 20.
The northwestern region of Niigata Prefecture recorded the highest number of deaths, with 17 and over 170 injured.
There was snowfall in the cities of Aomori and Wakkanai, with many vehicles stuck in the snow.
Most of the deaths were recorded as victims tried to clear snow from their roofs or around their homes. This year's winter has brought chaos to 15 of the country's 47 prefectures, with snow reaching two meters in some places.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of further heavy snowfall in the western and northern coastal areas over the weekend.
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