In Japan, a remarkable situation unfolded as over a hundred individuals sought refuge in a mountain shrine due to significant snowfall that rendered roads impassable. More than 130 people found themselves spending the night within the halls and lobbies of Mitsumine Shrine, located in Saitama prefecture, after heavy snow accumulation led to road closures for safety reasons, as reported by public broadcaster NHK.
Local authorities confirmed that approximately 50 vehicles were stranded, with their occupants taking shelter in the shrine's facilities. Thankfully, no health issues were reported among those who sought refuge there.
Currently, Japan is grappling with severe winter weather, with forecasts predicting additional snowfall of up to 40 centimeters in certain regions on Saturday. In fact, the Japan Meteorological Agency indicated that in just the past 72 hours, some areas have already received as much as 80 centimeters of snow, with more expected as a cold front continues to linger.
The decision to close roads around the Mitsumine Shrine was prompted by several incidents, including cars losing traction and sliding off the roads, according to reports from local police cited by NHK. In the region surrounding the shrine, snow accumulation has reached up to 4 centimeters, combined with frigid temperatures dipping to as low as -15 degrees Celsius, creating perilous icy conditions.
Perched at an elevation of 1,110 meters (3,640 feet) above sea level near Chichibu city, the Mitsumine Shrine holds a significant place in Shinto worship, dedicated to the deities Izanami and Izanagi, who are revered as the divine couple responsible for the creation of the Japanese islands. It's believed that the shrine was established in the 1st century by Prince Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, the son of Emperor Keikō, adding to its historical and cultural importance.
