Heavy snowfalls in Japan, at least 45 dead

Japan is preparing for heavy snowfall over the weekend, while Japan's Fire Management and Disasters Agency reports at least 45 deaths and over 500 snow-related injuries since January 20th.

The northwestern region of the Niigata Prefecture registered the highest death toll of 17 and over 170 injured, reports Telegraph, broadcast Periscope.

Heavy snowfalls were seen in Aomori and Wakkanai, with many vehicles blocked.

Japan's Meteorological Agency warned of further heavy snowfall in Western and northern coastal regions over the weekend.

The agency called on local residents to remain alert to traffic cuts and to be careful about avalanches.

Otherwise, the warning comes as Japan prepares for Sunday's general elections. /Periscope/