11 Feb 2022 | 04:11 AM UTC
Japan: Winter weather forecast over Kanto and Koshin regions through at least Feb. 11 /update 2
Winter weather forecast over Kanto and Koshin regions, Japan through at least Feb. 11. Transport disruptions ongoing.
Event
Winter weather, including heavy snow, is forecast across the Kanto and Koshin regions through at least Feb. 11. As of Feb. 11, the Japan Meteorological Administration has not yet issued any warnings in relation to the winter weather but is likely to issue new warnings or update existing advisories in the coming days.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions over the coming days. Heavy snow will probably make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected area as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes.
Officials may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.
As of early Feb. 11, officials have canceled several flights, including at least 14 flights, connecting Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) with Fukuoka Airport (FUK) and Osaka International Airport (ITM). Portions of the Metropolitan Expressway remain closed: the Chuo Loop Route is closed between Oi and Kumanocho junctions and between Itabashi and Kohoku junctions while the Saitama Omiya Route is closed between Yono and Minuma in Saitama. Train services are suspended or delayed on portions of the Joban, Kururi, Narita, and Sobu lines. The Shinkansen and other JR East lines are operating normally.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
