Heavy snowfall has led to major expressway closures across Japan on January 10, 2025, significantly impacting travel and transportation within affected regions. Officials from NEXCO Central Japan announced multiple closures on highways and national routes due to dangerous conditions. Roads affected include the Hokuriku Expressway and the Tōmei Expressway, undermined by the intense snowfall.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, Gifu Prefecture saw extraordinary snowfall, with accumulations reported as high as 182 cm at White River Village. The snow has created perilous travel conditions, prompting authorities to take action. "The forecast predicts heavy snow causing severe travel disruptions across the region," the Agency stated.
Specific closures include the Hokuriku Expressway from Tsuruga IC to Maibara JCT and sections of the Meishin Expressway. Other affected routes involve National Route 158 and the Chubu Jukan Road. Authorities strive to minimize risks and have appealed to residents to avoid non-essential travel during the snowstorms. "Traffic restrictions are needed to prevent accidents during the severe weather conditions," reported local police, who are actively monitoring the situation.
By 6:50 am, NEXCO indicated several road closures extended significantly across Gifu and Aichi prefectures, causing significant traffic delays. Among these were sections of National Route 8 and National Route 21, where heavy snowfall continued to restrict access. Although some closures began to lift as conditions improved, others remained indefinitely shut due to hazardous conditions.
NEXCO has continued to work on road maintenance and monitoring, stating, "Several major roads remain closed, which is causing significant traffic delays." The safety of commuters remains their foremost priority, and as weather conditions fluctuate, road statuses are continuously evaluated.
Local residents and motorists are feeling the impact of these disruptions. Recurring snowfall forecasted to amount to additional 50 cm could exacerbate the situation. Playwright and long-distance truck driver Hiroshi Tanaka, who experienced delays firsthand, described the heavy snowfall as unprecedented, stating, "It felt like the snow would never stop, and I had to make the tough decision to delay my deliveries for safety. Everything is at standstill."
For people who planned to travel, warnings have been issued about the potential for continuing severe conditions. Residents are advised to keep tuned to updates from NEXCO and local authorities, ensuring they are aware of current road conditions and closures.
The Japan Meteorological Agency continues to evaluate the emergency weather conditions and urges travelers to remain alert. They predict additional snowfall may complicate the travel situation presently present across the Tōkai region and other southwestern areas.
The snowfall’s intensity not only halted travel but also heightened consumer anxiety about supply chains, particularly as the region is known for producing key agricultural goods. With roads impassable, questions loom about how long the recovery efforts will take once conditions normalize.
This situation serves as a poignant reminder of the power of nature, and with state emergency services ready to assist, many are left wondering when normalcy will return. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor travels if possible and remain prepared for changes as updates are delivered.
Authorities expect to provide regular briefings as the weather develops, reinforcing their commitment to road safety and community protection. For the latest updates, travelers should follow NEXCO’s advisories and plan accordingly. Authorities are doing their best to navigate this challenging winter weather, hoping to reopen major routes as soon as safely possible.
This snowfall episode has been particularly notable not just for its severity but for the sheer volume of road closures across significant stretch of expressway. The situation remains fluid and dynamic, with reports continuing to come from the region concerning snow conditions and anticipated thawing.
The ultimate goal remains to restore accessible travel routes, and the impact on daily life, business, and the agricultural sectors cannot be overlooked as stakeholders await gradual improvement following this heavy snowfall.