2 die in own homes as heavy snow buries Aomori, Japan

Two men have died in separate incidents in Aomori, Japan, as the city deals with heavy snowfall measuring 178 centimeters.

An 80-year-old man was found buried under snow in the carport of his home on January 30. Despite being rushed to hospital, he was later pronounced dead. A snow shovel was found beside him, according to Mainichi Shimbun.

The following day, a 54-year-old farmer was found dead in snow piled on the roof of his house. Aomori Prefectural Police said he had been clearing snow from the roof since noon that day.

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As of the afternoon of February 1, the Aomori Local Meteorological Observatory measured snow depth at 178cm. In response to the severe conditions, the local government has set up a disaster consultation service for "snow disasters."

Residents can call for help with issues like dangerously heavy roof snow or being trapped indoors due to blocked doors. However, officials face significant travel difficulties due to narrowed roads from accumulated snow.