Two people died and 26 were injured in a massive pile-up on a highway in central Japan. The accident involved approximately 50 vehicles. It occurred on the Kan-etsu Expressway in Minakami, Gunma prefecture. The location is about 160km northwest of Tokyo. The incident happened around 19:30 local time on December 26.
The pile-up began with a crash between two trucks. This triggered a chain reaction. At least 10 vehicles caught fire. A 77-year-old woman from Tokyo was among the deceased. The other victim was found in a burnt-out truck. Five people sustained serious injuries. Twenty-one others suffered minor injuries.
Heavy snow warnings were in effect. Police suspect icy road conditions caused the initial truck skids. Firefighters spent seven and a half hours extinguishing the flames. A section of the highway was closed. Many vehicles were charred beyond recognition. Towing operations are underway.
The Kan-etsu Expressway is a major transportation artery in Japan. It connects Tokyo with regions to the northwest. Winter weather frequently impacts driving conditions in the area.
Authorities will investigate the precise cause of the initial collision. The closed section of the highway will reopen after clearing and safety inspections.
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