Heavy snow in large swaths of Japan has killed at least 17 people, injured more than 93 others and left hundreds of homes without power, disaster management officials said Monday. 

Broadcaster NHK said the dead included a man who fell from a roof while clearing snow and a woman found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in a car.

Much of Japan's west coast as well as the northern region of Hokkaido have seen persistent heavy snow in recent days since December 17, with some areas have seen almost a meter of snowfall in 24 hours.

The weather agency has warned residents in the affected regions to avoid travel where possible.

The snowfall is expected to ease from Monday.

(With input from AFP)