NEXCO West Japan has issued its traffic congestion predictions for the New Year's holiday season on the Kyushu Expressway, forecasting significant delays for travelers.
The anticipated congestion for outbound traffic is predicted to peak on December 29, with forecasts indicating maximum jams of up to 10 kilometers near the Chikushino Interchange, Kanda Tunnel, and Hirokawa Interchange. Specifically, around 10 AM, congestion is expected to start forming at the Chikushino IC; at noon, the Kanda Tunnel will become the site of another major slow-down; and by 1 PM, heavy traffic will likely be recorded near Hirokawa IC.
The inbound side of the expressway is expected to witness jams as well, particularly on January 3 and 4. On January 3, significant congestion could occur around Kiyama PA around noon, with maximum anticipated delays extending up to 10 kilometers. By 5 PM, traffic could intensify near Koga SA, with delays possibly stretching to 20 kilometers. January 4 may see similar delays, with significant congestion around Kiyama PA once more, expected at 3 PM, and again near Koga SA at 4 PM. This period is predicted to result once more in delays of up to 20 kilometers by 6 PM near Hirokawa IC.
NEXCO West Japan urges travelers to plan their journeys carefully to avoid these expected peak times. According to the organization, traveling during busy periods could lead to delays of approximately 50 minutes at peak congestion locations. Drivers should be particularly cautious and have contingency plans, as their travel time may extend significantly due to increased vehicular traffic.
The company has identified the busiest days for outbound traffic as December 28, 29, and 30, as well as January 2 and 3. On the inbound side, the most congested days are anticipated to be January 2, 3, and 4.
Travelers should also be aware of the challenges posed by the high volume of vehicles throughout this holiday season. To mitigate traffic congestion, NEXCO West Japan has highlighted certain preventive measures. Notably, for traffic during weekends and public holidays from December 28 through January 5, NEXCO West Japan will not apply discounts, potentially changing travel habits to help ease congestion.
Hence, it’s key for holiday travelers to structure their travel plans with the predicted congestion patterns firmly in mind. By considering peak hours and researching possible alternate routes adhering to NEXCO’s predictions, travelers can significantly improve their chances of avoiding heavy traffic gridlock.
The possibilities for each major traffic area like Chikushino IC and Hirokawa IC indicate the need for heightened awareness of road conditions. All travelers are invited to remain informed, adjust their leaving times accordingly, and adhere to traffic advisories from NEXCO West Japan to make their new year’s travels as smooth as possible.
With the combination of planning and preventive actions provided by NEXCO, the hope is for safer and more efficient travel as the holiday season kicks off. Bean hour-by-hour guidance on navigation and expressway conditions continues to be pertinent, enabling drivers to enjoy their New Year celebrations knowing they are prepared for the challenges of holiday travel.
