At a building demolition site near JR Chiba Station, the ceiling collapsed, causing debris to fall and trapping three people. One man is in cardiopulmonary arrest, and another remains buried under the rubble as rescue efforts continue.
A winter pressure pattern and strong cold air aloft are causing continuous snowfall on the Sea of Japan side from Hokkaido to the Chugoku region. Some areas have already exceeded average snowfall levels, with significant snow accumulation expected in the Hokuriku, Niigata, and Tohoku regions.
Wildfires near Los Angeles have expanded across multiple areas, resulting in at least five deaths and the destruction of over 1,100 buildings. More than 100,000 residents have been issued evacuation orders or warnings. The fires have spread rapidly due to strong winds and dry conditions.
In response to the theft of metal cables, the National Police Agency is drafting new legislation to strengthen regulations. This includes requiring stricter identification checks for metal buyers, maintaining transaction records, and potentially banning the concealment of tools used to cut cables.
Prime Minister Kishida's visit to Malaysia and Indonesia aims to strengthen Japan's relations with Southeast Asia. He plans to hold summit meetings with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar and Indonesian President Prabowo to discuss economic contributions and security frameworks in the region.
Heavy snowfall, particularly in the Hokuriku, Niigata, and Tohoku regions, is expected to cause significant transportation disruptions. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of potential traffic impacts due to snow accumulation and blizzards.