With forecasts predicting heavy snowfall across the Kanto region, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has announced significant preventive road closures set to begin on March 4, 2025, to prioritize public safety and prevent vehicles from becoming stranded. Starting from 3:30 PM, these closures will affect major highways and national roads, largely focusing on the Tomei Expressway and associated routes.
According to the Kanto Regional Development Bureau, the initial closures will impact the Metropolitan Expressway Central Circular Route, stretching from Ooi Junction to Kumanocho Junction. The expansion of these closures is expected around 4:00 PM, affecting stretches of the Tomei Expressway, the Shin-Tomei Expressway, the Ken-o Expressway, and various national roads such as routes 1, 16, and 246.
The Tomei Expressway's closures will extend from Tokyo Interchange to Shimizu Interchange and between several interchanges along the Shin-Tomei Expressway, including both the major arteries and several local connectors. Notably, the Ken-o Expressway will be impacted from Sagamihara Interchange to Samukawa-kita Interchange. By 6:00 PM, closures are anticipated on the Tohoku Expressway as well, from Yaita Interchange to Shirakawa Interchange.
“Our aim is to avoid any incidents of vehicles becoming stranded due to the snow. It’s imperative for everyone traveling this evening to prioritize safety,” said a representative from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The ministry has strongly urged the public to refrain from non-essential outings, advising motorists to equip their vehicles with winter tires and chains, as well as to carry necessary equipment such as shovels, sand, food, and water.
The continuing snowfall may necessitate concentrated snow removal efforts, prompting additional road closures or chain regulations depending on conditions. To facilitate this, the Ministry recommends reviewing travel plans, considering alternative routes, and waiting at safe locations such as service areas until conditions improve.
Already, numerous areas across Kanagawa Prefecture have reported advisories, with extensive warnings directed at travelers. The importance of preparedness cannot be overstated, especially as normal tires are prohibited on snowy roads, with penalties imposed under local traffic laws.
The schedule for road closures based on the latest forecast has been announced: starting at 3:30 PM on various expressways, including the Metropolitan Expressway Central Circular Route and the Bayshore Route (Daiba Connection Road), the following closures are expected:
- 3:30 PM: Metropolitan Expressway Central Circular Route and Bayshore Route.
- 4:00 PM: Tomei Expressway, Shin-Tomei Expressway, Ken-o Expressway, and other national routes.
- 6:00 PM: Tohoku Expressway, among others.
Further amendments may occur based on real-time weather reports as conditions develop. The officials stress the necessity of heeding warnings and adjusting plans accordingly to avoid potential hazards caused by this winter storm.
Citizens are encouraged to stay updated on the latest weather conditions and to make provisions for safe travel. By exercising caution, they can help mitigate risks associated with the impending major snowfall forecasted for the region.