In the wake of heavy snowfall affecting various parts of Japan, over 100 people took refuge at the Mitsumine Shrine in Saitama prefecture after heavy snow led to road closures. Around 130 individuals found shelter in the shrine's halls and lobbies on Friday night. According to reports from public broadcaster NHK, the local authorities confirmed that residents of approximately 50 vehicles stayed in the shrine building, and notably, no one experienced health-related issues during their stay.
Currently, Japan is grappling with intense winter weather conditions, with forecasts predicting up to 40cm of additional snow to fall in certain areas. Reports from the Japan Meteorological Agency indicated that some regions have already received up to 80cm of snow over the past 72 hours.
As a result of icy conditions and several incidents involving cars slipping, roads around the shrine were closed for safety reasons, as noted by local law enforcement. In the affected region, a snowfall of about 4cm has occurred, with temperatures dropping to as low as -15°C, contributing to hazardous conditions.
The Mitsumine Shrine, located at 1,110 meters (3,640 feet) above sea level in the mountains near Chichibu, is a well-known site for Shinto worship dedicated to Izanami and Izanagi, the legendary figures believed to have created the Japanese islands. Its origins date back to the 1st century, attributed to Prince Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, a son of Emperor Keikō.
Currently, Japan is grappling with intense winter weather conditions, with forecasts predicting up to 40cm of additional snow to fall in certain areas. Reports from the Japan Meteorological Agency indicated that some regions have already received up to 80cm of snow over the past 72 hours.
As a result of icy conditions and several incidents involving cars slipping, roads around the shrine were closed for safety reasons, as noted by local law enforcement. In the affected region, a snowfall of about 4cm has occurred, with temperatures dropping to as low as -15°C, contributing to hazardous conditions.
The Mitsumine Shrine, located at 1,110 meters (3,640 feet) above sea level in the mountains near Chichibu, is a well-known site for Shinto worship dedicated to Izanami and Izanagi, the legendary figures believed to have created the Japanese islands. Its origins date back to the 1st century, attributed to Prince Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, a son of Emperor Keikō.
