On March 4, 2025, Kanto region residents are facing severe winter weather, with authorities warning of potentially dangerous snow levels due to the influence of a southern maritime low-pressure system. Snowfall is expected to significantly increase compared to the previous day, with accumulations likely across the 23 wards of Tokyo. Deterioration of weather conditions is anticipated from the evening, resulting in widespread snow including over central Tokyo.
To mitigate traffic impacts, preventive road closures are being implemented on several major highways. The Metropolitan Expressway will see closures starting from 4 PM, with the Central Circular Route's operations already disrupted as of 3:30 PM, according to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Expecting substantial traffic disruptions, JR East has announced they will suspend services of 37 limited express trains, namely the 'Azusa' and 'Kaiji', which primarily service routes between Shinjuku Station and Matsumoto Station.
Warnings of heavy snow have led the Central Japan Expressway Company to announce preventive closures for March 4 and 5. Starting at 4 PM, closures on sections of the E1 Tomei Expressway, E1A Shin-Tomei Expressway, and National Route 1 will begin. NEXCO East Japan confirmed similar measures, stating significant highways including the Third Keihin Road and the Yokohama Shindo experienced closures due to adverse weather.
Heavy snowfall is also expected to impact the Nagano region, as authorities warn of potential stranding of vehicles on major roads and highways. From 6 PM onwards, the Joshinetsu Expressway along with sections of national routes will see closures, affecting commuters and travelers alike. The Kanto Regional Development Bureau has emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary travel during snow events and urged individuals to change their plans according to real-time conditions.
Heavy snowfall is anticipated mainly over mountainous areas, affecting transport across several prefectures and significantly impacting those commuting from outlying areas. Public transport services on the Ome Line and other routes are bracing for suspensions due to the forecasted conditions with operations expected to halt from roughly late afternoon to midday the next day.
Travelers and residents are advised to stay updated with weather forecasts and road conditions. Local authorities recommend making prior adjustments to travel plans and utilizing remote work options where feasible to avoid unnecessary commutes during the inclement weather.
With over 37 road sections under preventative closure, the latest updates from authorities will help manage traffic flow and safety concerns during this snow event. The ministry’s proactive approach aims to prevent chaos and potential accidents caused by the expected snow accumulation.
Adverse weather conditions can lead to dangerous scenarios, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism emphasized, urging the population to avoid non-essential travel. Plans for extensive snow removal and clear pathways are underway. The struggle against winter elements remains acute as forecasts indicate sustained snow throughout the night.
East Japan Railway Company is closely monitoring developments, indicating possible cancellations on selected suburban and regional services. Weather-dependent scheduling will continue to dictate the availability of trains, with potential disruptions on routes crossing snow-prone areas.
Real-time updates on expressway conditions and public transport cancellations can be found on transport websites and apps, allowing travelers to adapt quickly to changing circumstances.
Meanwhile, highway operators are implementing measures to curb extensive vehicle stranding, as past snowfalls have demonstrated the difficulty of managing traffic during such events. Preventative closures are viewed as necessary steps to protect public safety and help manage service restoration as quickly as possible.