A powerful snowstorm is wreaking havoc across Japan, prompting extensive highway closures as officials brace for potentially dangerous conditions beginning February 7, 2025. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has announced preventive measures aimed at avoiding the chaos previously experienced during heavy snowfall, where many vehicles were left stranded on the roads for extended periods.
According to the information from MLIT, starting around 7 PM on February 7, several major highways including the Meishin Expressway and the Shin-Meishin Expressway will face closures. The affected sections, as outlined by the authorities, include:
- Meishin Expressway: Kyoto East Interchange to Komaki Interchange
- Shin-Meishin Expressway: Kusatsu Junction to Yokkaichi Junction
- Hokuriku Expressway: Maibara Junction to Tsuruga Interchange
- Meihan Expressway: Kameyama Interchange to Tenri East Interchange
- Kōshū Expressway: Sections between several key junctions including Seta Higashi Junction to Uji Nishi Interchange
- National Route 1: Tōkaidō Sekiyado East Intersection to Hayashi Nishi Intersection
- National Route 8 and Route 21: with similar closures planned across various intersections
By February 7, nightfall will see several roads, including national highways, going under precautionary closures as the snowfall intensifies. The dramatic shift indicates heavier than usual traffic disruptions, gravely affecting transportation systems, and potentially stranding travelers.
The Kinki Regional Development Bureau has provided detailed timelines for these closures, confirming they will mostly take effect between 7 PM and 10 PM. They also warned travelers of severe weather conditions persisting until February 9, when strong winter fronts might reenter the region, compounding snow accumulation and adversely affecting travel plans.
Local authorities have acknowledged the serious risks posed by these weather conditions, stressing the importance of winter preparedness. They have urged motorists to refrain from unnecessary travel during the storm and to equip their vehicles appropriately with snow tires or chains. Such safety measures are considered legally mandated when road conditions are dangerous, and people are reminded of the obligation to stay informed about weather developments.
Previous incidents of winter storms have shaped these preventive strategies. For example, during earlier snowfalls in January 2023 and January 2024, hundreds of vehicles were caught in traffic jams for upwards of 24 hours. Acknowledging these past experiences, MLIT is taking proactive steps to mitigate similar occurrences.
Officials are closely monitoring road and weather conditions and have recommended contacting transportation providers to adjust schedules accordingly. They have also highlighted the importance of carrying sufficient supplies, including food, water, and fuel, when venturing out during severe weather. The authorities warned of thick snow potentially obstructing visibility and creating icy surfaces, emphasizing the risk of accidents.
The snowstorm's impact on highways is also mirrored by the warnings issued for key urban areas. Some regions are expected to witness hazardous snowfall, with the Meteorological Agency estimating significant precipitation levels. Citizens are encouraged to keep abreast of real-time updates to avoid getting caught off guard.
Travelers heading through or to the affected regions are advised to stay continuously updated with highway and transport authority communications as the weather events develop, particularly as road scenarios change rapidly and unexpected closures may occur.
This persistent winter storm is illustrative of the challenges posed by Japan's climate, particularly during the chilly months, raising concerns for both transport safety and operational logistics.
Local residents have expressed concern, some recalling the severe disruptions during past snowstorms. Enthusiasts and local citizens are encouraged to heed advice from authorities and take necessary precautions.
On this note, as the snowstorm approaches, officials are gearing up for extensive response efforts to manage traffic delays and maintain safety on the roads. Preparations are being made to deploy snow removal equipment and to get emergency services ready for prompt response to accidents.