On April 4, 2025, a dense fog blanketed Saitama Prefecture, leading to significant disruptions on the Metropolitan Inter-City Expressway, commonly known as the圏央道. The fog was so severe that it prompted the closure of the expressway between Kawajima Interchange (IC) and Okegawa-Kanetsu IC in both directions.
The traffic closure began at 04:00 AM local time, as reported by NEXCO East Japan. The authorities took swift action to ensure the safety of motorists, recognizing the hazardous driving conditions posed by the thick fog. Visibility was severely reduced, making it unsafe for vehicles to travel on this key route.
At approximately 5:03 AM, reports confirmed that the expressway remained closed, affecting both the outer and inner loops. This situation caused a ripple effect on local traffic, as drivers were forced to seek alternative routes while the expressway was rendered impassable.
Fortunately, by 08:00 AM, the situation improved enough for NEXCO East Japan to lift the closure. This timely decision allowed traffic to resume, easing the congestion that had built up during the morning rush hour. The reopening of the expressway came as a relief to many commuters and transport services operating in the area.
The incident highlights the challenges that weather conditions can impose on transportation infrastructure, especially during the spring season when fog can be prevalent. Authorities continue to monitor weather patterns closely to ensure the safety of all road users.
As the fog dissipated and visibility improved, officials reminded drivers to remain vigilant and exercise caution while on the roads, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The swift response by NEXCO East Japan and the timely lifting of the closure helped mitigate the impact of the fog on daily commutes.
In conclusion, while the fog caused temporary disruptions, the quick actions taken by transportation authorities ensured that normal traffic flow was restored as soon as conditions permitted.
