TOKYO (AP) — A tragic accident occurred on the Kan-etsu Expressway in Japan, resulting in one fatality and injuring 26 individuals as the nation started its end-of-the-year holiday season. The collision happened late Friday, with snowy weather contributing to the chaotic situation on the roadway.

The Gunma prefectural highway police reported that the pileup began with an initial collision between two trucks in Minakami, a town located approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Tokyo. Among the injured was a 77-year-old woman from Tokyo, who sadly lost her life due to the accident. Medical reports indicate that five of the 26 injured individuals are in serious condition, underscoring the severity of the crash.

As the crash unfolded, the blockage caused by the trucks prevented drivers in trailing vehicles from braking effectively on the slippery, snowy surface. In total, more than 50 vehicles were involved in the pileup, leading to a significant traffic disaster. The aftermath of the collision was further aggravated by a fire that broke out at the far end of the pileup, affecting more than a dozen vehicles, some of which were completely consumed by flames. Fortunately, no injuries were reported related to the fire, which took about seven hours to extinguish.

On the evening of the accident, there was an official warning about heavy snow, coinciding with the time when many people in Japan were beginning their year-end and New Year holiday travels. The hazardous winter conditions likely played a critical role in the occurrence of this unfortunate incident.

Following the crash, parts of the Kan-etsu Expressway were closed off to facilitate police investigations, as well as the removal and cleanup of the wreckage. This closure has caused significant traffic disruptions, particularly during a busy travel season when many commuters and vacationers are utilizing the expressway.

This accident raises concerns about road safety in adverse weather conditions and highlights the importance of driving cautiously during winter months. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers that arise when inclement weather impacts road conditions, particularly in a country like Japan, where snowfall can significantly affect travel.