Northern Japan is grappling with a severe snowfall crisis that has resulted in multiple fatalities, infrastructure damage, and widespread safety concerns for residents across the Tohoku and Niigata regions. Foreign residents in affected areas should exercise extreme caution as authorities warn of continuing dangers despite an expected temporary warming trend. According to NHK, snowfall levels have reached significantly above normal averages throughout the region, triggering a cascade of weather-related incidents. The crisis has already claimed lives and caused substantial property damage, with authorities urging residents to remain vigilant about multiple hazards. In one of the most serious incidents, a man believed to be in his 60s died in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture, on the afternoon of February 3rd when his residence collapsed, reportedly due to the weight of accumulated snow. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the structural failure, which highlights the dangers posed by excessive snow loads on buildings. This incident serves as a stark reminder for foreign residents to regularly assess their living situations, particularly those in older structures that may not be designed to handle extreme snow accumulation. Tragedy also struck in Mogami Town, Yamagata Prefecture, where an elderly woman in her 80s was found deceased in a residential waterway on February 2nd. Snow removal tools were discovered near her body, leading police to investigate the possibility that she fell into the waterway while performing snow clearing work. This incident underscores the significant risks associated with snow removal activities, particularly for those unfamiliar with proper safety procedures. The crisis has extended beyond residential areas to industrial facilities. In Itayanagi Town, Aomori Prefecture, falling snow from a factory roof damaged storage tanks and piping, causing heavy oil to leak into nearby waterways. The foundation operating the facility reported that no impact on surrounding residences or rivers has been confirmed so far, but the incident illustrates how extreme weather can create environmental hazards that affect entire communities. Reports indicate that buildings and carports have collapsed in multiple locations across Tohoku and Niigata Prefecture due to the unprecedented snow accumulation. The Japanese government has established a response headquarters to coordinate relief efforts and monitor the evolving situation. Looking ahead, meteorological forecasts predict a significant temperature increase across northern Japan and the Hokuriku region, with daytime temperatures on February 4th expected to reach levels typical of March. While this warming trend might seem like welcome relief, authorities are warning that it actually creates new dangers. The temperature rise increases the risk of snow sliding off roofs, avalanches in mountainous areas, and continued hazards during snow removal operations. For foreign residents living in or traveling to affected regions, understanding proper snow safety protocols is essential. The Japan Meteorological Agency recommends avoiding areas beneath roof eaves where snow might fall, staying away from steep slopes where avalanches could occur, and exercising extreme caution when clearing snow from properties. When removing snow, work with others when possible, inform someone of your activities, and carry a mobile phone for emergencies. Expats should also monitor local government announcements and weather updates regularly, as conditions can change rapidly. Many municipalities provide multilingual emergency information through their websites and social media channels. If you're uncertain about snow removal procedures or building safety, contact your local ward office or building management for guidance. As climate patterns continue to produce extreme weather events, foreign residents must familiarize themselves with seasonal hazards and appropriate response measures. This current crisis demonstrates that winter in Japan can present serious risks requiring preparation, awareness, and appropriate action to ensure personal safety and property protection.