Heavy snow in Japan leaves 17 dead, dozens injured

Heavy snow in large parts of Japan since last week has killed 17 and injured more than 90 people, while leaving hundreds of homes without power, disaster management officials said Monday. More snowfall over the Christmas weekend caused more casualties, bringing the death toll to 17 and injuries to 93 by Monday morning, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.

Heavy snow knocked down an electric power transmission tower in Japan’s northernmost main island at one point left about 20,000 homes without power on Christmas morning, though electricity was restored in most areas later that day, according to the economy and industry ministry.

Dozens of trains and flights were also suspended in northern Japan through Sunday, but services have since mostly resumed, according to the transportation ministry. Gasoline stations and delivery services have not been affected.