Heavy snowfall across Japan has claimed at least 45 lives and injured over 500 people since January 20, according to reports from Euronews. The northwestern region of Niigata Prefecture was hit the hardest, recording 17 deaths and over 170 injuries. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of more heavy snow expected in western and northern coastal regions over the weekend.
The Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported the casualties, highlighting the severity of the weather conditions. Snowy conditions were observed in Aomori City and Wakkanai, with numerous vehicles stranded due to the snowfall. Euronews also reported that the country was bracing for more heavy snow.
In other news, the German army brigade in Lithuania is facing hybrid warfare tactics, according to Euronews. Soldiers have reported mysterious phone calls and drone surveillance, which are believed to be part of a broader campaign of Russian pressure on EU and NATO territories. One soldier recounted receiving a phone call where he heard his own voice from a conversation hours earlier.
Meanwhile, a report from the Environmental Integrity Project revealed a significant decline in the enforcement of environmental laws in the United States during the first year of Donald Trump's second term. Civil lawsuits filed by the Department of Justice in cases referred by the Environmental Protection Agency dropped to just 16 in the first 12 months after Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025, a 76 percent decrease compared to the first year of the Biden administration, according to Ars Technica.
Finally, the 2026 Olympic Winter Games have been overshadowed by a scandal involving male ski jumpers. Rumors suggest that some athletes may have injected their penises with fillers to gain a competitive advantage, Ars Technica reported. A 2025 study cited by Ars Technica indicated that even a small increase in the surface area of a ski suit could significantly impact performance.
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