The crash occurred on the Kanetsu Expressway near the town of Minakami, where icy roads and poor visibility triggered a series of collisions involving passenger cars and freight trucks. According to initial reports, the chaos began when approximately 15 vehicles collided, sparking a fire that rapidly escalated as more vehicles slammed into the growing wreckage. Within minutes, the expressway turned into a scene of twisted metal, burning debris, and immobilized traffic.
Emergency services rushed to the site, battling both the blaze and hazardous weather conditions to rescue those trapped inside damaged vehicles. Officials confirmed that at least one person lost their life in the accident, while 26 others sustained injuries of varying severity. Several victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment, though authorities have not released further details about their conditions.
Police and highway authorities swiftly closed the Kanetsu Expressway in both directions to facilitate rescue operations and clear the wreckage. Firefighters worked to extinguish the flames, while road crews attempted to manage the aftermath in snow-covered conditions. Investigators are examining whether reduced visibility, black ice, or sudden braking contributed to the scale of the collision.
The incident caused widespread disruption, stranding motorists and highlighting the vulnerability of major transport routes during severe winter weather. Officials urged drivers to exercise extreme caution, reduce speed, and avoid unnecessary travel during snowstorms.
As cleanup operations continue and authorities assess the full impact of the crash, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of how quickly hazardous weather can turn routine travel into a deadly emergency on busy highways.
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