Severe winter weather has disrupted transportation across Kyoto, Japan, forcing the closure of key expressways and local bus services. On February 8, at approximately 10:15 AM, the Kyoto縦貫自動車道 (Kyoto Expressway) became impassable due to heavy snow, especially between the 長岡京IC (Nagaokakyo Interchange) and 八木中IC (Yaginaka Interchange). According to the Western Japan Expressway Company (NEXCO West Japan), this closure has created significant travel difficulties for commuters between Kyoto City and Kameoka City.
Local bus services were also heavily impacted by the inclement weather. 丹後海陸交通 (Tango Sea and Land Transport) canceled two scheduled bus routes connecting the northern Tango region of Kyoto Prefecture to Kyoto Station. The morning bus service from 間人 (Tajiri) to Kyoto was reduced, now only traveling to 園部町 (Sonobe), extending only part of the originally planned route. Similarly, 京都交通 (Kyoto Transport) announced the cancellation of all bus services connecting 城崎 (Kinosaki) and 福知山 (Fukuchiyama) to Kyoto Station, Osaka, and Kobe, effective from 11 AM on the same day.
Weather conditions have not only affected transportation schedules but have also led to difficult driving conditions resulting in accidents. A police report detailed an incident around 9:30 AM on February 8, where three vehicles were involved near the 沓掛インターチェンジ (Kutsukake Interchange) on the Kyoto縦貫自動車道. According to authorities, a small vehicle lost control due to icy conditions, colliding with the central barrier, which was followed by two trucks also crashing, causing injuries. One driver was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Residents and commuters are advised to stay updated through official announcements from the NEXCO West Japan and local transportation authorities concerning the status of the closures. The weather forecast suggests continued heavy snowfall, raising concerns about when these routes will reopen. There is currently no estimate for when the expressways will become safe for travel again, which has left many uncertain about their daily commutes.
Driving conditions remain perilous across the region, and authorities are stressing the importance of safety during this severe weather spell. With visibility reportedly low and road surfaces icy, travelers are being encouraged to reconsider their trips and to use alternative transportation methods if available.
This wave of winter weather has not only impacted transportation but has caused widespread concerns among local residents, who have faced challenges due to snow accumulation and harsh driving conditions. Many have turned to social media to share updates and tips for dealing with the weather, showcasing the community's resilience and adaptability.
The cancellations and closures serve as reminders of the unpredictable nature of winter weather and its capacity to disrupt daily life. Transportation officials continue to monitor the situation closely, hoping the severe conditions will ease soon. Until then, travel disruptions are expected to persist, and safety remains the priority for all those on the road during this challenging winter period.