A severe snowstorm is poised to disrupt travel across Japan, leading to preemptive highway closures starting at 2 AM on January 10. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has announced significant closures on major routes, particularly affecting the Meishin Expressway and Hokuriku Expressway, with additional impacts on National Routes 8 and 21.
The snowstorm, described as potentially catastrophic by local meteorological authorities, has prompted the government to act decisively to avoid the kind of traffic chaos experienced during past snow events. ‘Snow of disaster-level is expected and accidents are likely to occur,’ stated the head of the Kinki Regional Development Bureau during a joint press conference aimed at increasing public awareness.
The proposed closures include stretches of the Meishin Expressway from Ichinomiya IC (Aichi Prefecture) to Ritto-Kohoku IC (Shiga Prefecture), as well as sections of the Hokuriku Expressway. Specifically, National Route 8 will be closed from Hikida Intersection (Fukui Prefecture) to Tsuji Intersection (Shiga Prefecture), and National Route 21 will be closed between Rakuda Intersection (Gifu Prefecture) and Nishiyenji Intersection (Shiga Prefecture). This preemptive closure is intended to manage traffic flow and prevent incidents akin to the massive gridlock experienced last year when heavy snowfall trapped hundreds of vehicles.
Reported by Kansai TV, spokespersons from the MLIT emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, ‘This proactive measure is intended to avoid the previous year’s gridlock incidents.’ Traffic management measures will extend beyond just the highways, with additional warnings issued for local roads and regions likely to be impacted. Areas have advised against traveling during severe weather and recommended staying informed through local news and updates.
Weather experts predict rain followed by snow accumulation, potentially reaching significant levels. The heavy snowfall may lead to treacherous driving conditions, prompting officials to stress, ‘Even familiar routes should not be taken lightly,’ as they warned of conditions ripe for slipping and overturned vehicles.
The response from local authorities isn’t limited to merely announcing closures. Community meetings have been held, with officials engaging residents to encourage preparedness for the storm. Local emergency services are also ramping up resources, preparing to assist motorists stranded by unforeseen weather-related incidents.
Previous snowstorms have highlighted the importance of readiness as areas across Aichi, Gifu, and Shiga prepare for potential severe weather. Travellers have expressed concern over these necessary measures, though many understand the need for traffic safety during such extreme conditions. ‘It’s frustrating to have our plans disrupted, but safety is most important,’ remarked one local traveler.
With the snowstorm expected to peak overnight and decline later on January 10, authorities encourage individuals to remain vigilant and plan any travel accordingly. They are also stressing the importance of adhering to travel advisories and heeding all notifications from the MLIT and local emergency services.
Drivers are urged to be cautious, as winter conditions can change rapidly. Those needing to travel on affected highways should be prepared for alternate routes and possible delays. It’s imperative for motorists to equip their vehicles for winter driving, carry emergency supplies, and stay tuned to traffic reports.
Overall, the impending snowstorm highlights the region’s vulnerabilities to severe winter weather and brings to forefront the need for community cooperation as residents brace for this next chapter of winter. The effectiveness of these closures will not only depend on cooperation from the drivers but also on usability of alternate routes constructed to accommodate increased traffic.
With travel disruptions expected to continue at least through the morning of January 10, the local governments advise affected residents to stay indoors if possible until the storm passes and consult all available resources to remain safe during this challenging period.