At least 17 people have died in Japan as a result of heavy snowfall across the nation

Digital Desk: According to Japanese officials, at least 17 people were killed in the country's heavy snowfall on Monday (December 26). Officials have also stated that thousand more households are without power. Most of Japan's west coast has been blanketed with heavy snow during the last few days. Hokkaido's northern region experienced similar meteorological calamities.

Local media reported that about a metre of snow fell in 24 hours in some spots, including the town of Oguni in the northeastern Yamagata prefecture. 

According to NHK, rural parts of Japan's Niigata Prefecture received one metre and twenty centimetres of snow. According to the report, some 2,000 families were still without power as of Sunday evening, as the snow had created a blackout in the region since Saturday.

Tens of thousands of Hokkaido homes have lost power in recent days. According to authorities, the snow pulled down power lines, though most connections have now been restored. 

Japan's weather agency has issued a warning to residents in the most vulnerable areas. People were advised to avoid needless travel since heavy snow was stranding cars on the roads.

According to government sources, 17 people have died and dozens have been injured as a result of the snow since December 17.