Northern Japan is grappling with an alarming rise in bear attacks, which have claimed 13 lives since April, marking a record high. Reports of bears invading homes, wandering near schools, and causing chaos in supermarkets have become increasingly common, instilling fear among residents. In response, locals have resorted to measures like attaching bells to their bags to deter the animals, while authorities deploy troops and riot police to manage the crisis. The government has also authorized the use of rifles to shoot bears, which can weigh up to half a ton and outrun humans.