Tokyo Highways Set to Close Ahead of Heavy Snowfall Forecast

Highways in Tokyo will close due to anticipated heavy snowfall. Major routes will be affected, and travelers are urged to avoid nonessential outings and prepare for disruptions. Weather conditions indicate significant snowfall, necessitating caution and preparedness among residents.

The transport ministry has announced that highways in the Tokyo metropolitan area will close as a preventive measure in anticipation of heavy snowfall forecasted for Tuesday. Major routes such as the Tomei Expressway, Shin-Tomei Expressway, and Joshinetsu Expressway will be closed starting between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., alongside several smaller national highways. There will likely also be closures on the Tohoku Expressway and National Route 4 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Travelers are advised to avoid nonessential travel and to monitor weather and road information updates, according to a spokesperson for the ministry. The Chuo, Kan-Etsu, and Joban expressways are currently unaffected, but closures may occur if snow accumulates or accidents happen. This initiative is a response to forecasted adverse weather conditions in the Kanto and Koshin regions, expected to last from Tuesday morning until 6 a.m. Wednesday.

The northern mountainous area of the broader Kanto region is expected to receive up to 30 centimeters of snow, including the Koshin region, which encompasses Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures. In Tokyo, the Meteorological Agency predicts that the west Tama area could see approximately 15 centimeters, while the 23 wards are projected to get about 3 centimeters in the 24 hours leading up to 6 a.m. on Wednesday.

Both the Meteorological Agency and the ministry caution drivers regarding potential travel disruptions, power outages, and structural damage. Residents should equip their vehicles with winter tires or chains, plan for extended travel times, and consider alternative routes or options for remote work during this period of inclement weather.

In summary, highways in Tokyo will close as a precautionary measure against predicted heavy snowfall. The closures will affect major expressways and some smaller national roads, with additional restrictions possible. Travelers are advised to avoid nonessential travel and prepare accordingly. Emergency preparedness, including the use of winter tires and contingency planning, is also encouraged amid the approaching storm.

Original Source: www.japantimes.co.jp