Massive Pile-Up in Japan: Over 60 Vehicles Involved in Crash Due to Heavy Snow and Black Ice
On December 26, 2025, a catastrophic multi-vehicle accident occurred on the Kan-etsu Expressway in Gunma Prefecture (Minakami area), Japan.
Severe heavy snowfall and black ice caused a chain-reaction crash involving more than 60 cars and trucks. A fire broke out during the pile-up, completely destroying over a dozen vehicles.
Details of the Deadly Crash on Japan’s Highway
The incident began around 7:30 p.m. local time when two trucks collided on the slippery roadway. The blocked lanes and near-zero visibility from the intense snowstorm prevented following drivers from stopping in time, triggering a massive chain collision. Flames quickly spread, engulfing multiple vehicles.
As of December 27, authorities confirmed two fatalities, including a 77-year-old woman from Tokyo, and 26 injuries, with five people in serious condition.
Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours, and the affected section of the highway remained closed in both directions for cleanup and investigation.
Sixty-seven cars collided on a highway in Japan, 20 of which caught fire. Two people died, and 26 were injured, five of whom were seriously injured.
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Causes: Black Ice and Intense Snowfall
The Japan Meteorological Agency had issued warnings for heavy snowfall in the region that day, coinciding with increased holiday traffic ahead of New Year celebrations.
Slippery roads, poor visibility, and high volume of vehicles were the primary factors behind the tragedy. Similar large-scale winter accidents in Japan often occur in mountainous areas when weather suddenly deteriorates.
Aftermath and Safety Warnings
The Kan-etsu Expressway, a major route connecting Tokyo to Niigata, experienced major disruptions.
Police are investigating the exact sequence of events but have already urged drivers to use winter tires, snow chains, and exercise extreme caution during black ice conditions.
This devastating crash serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of winter driving in Japan, especially during the busy holiday season.