The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has announced the possible preventive closure of expressways and national highways due to the heavy snow expected from January 21 to 25.
Expressway closures will be in effect between the Tonami IC and the Sanjo-Tsubame IC on the Hokuriku Expressway (E8), between the Muikamachi IC and the Nagaoka JCT on the Kan-etsu Expressway (E17), and between the Nagano IC and the Joetsu JCT on the Joshin-etsu Expressway (E18). Parallel National Routes 8, 17, 18, and 116 may also be closed. The start time is set for today, January 21, at around 18:00.
The January 20 announcement covered the area east of the Namekawa Interchange in Toyama Prefecture, but on January 21 the scope was expanded to include the western part of the prefecture.
Drivers are asked to refrain from going out unnecessarily and to check the latest weather and road information. If they have no choice but to go out, they are asked to install winter tires and chains, and to prepare for snow and ice with shovels and non-slip clothing, as well as blankets, food, and beverages for a large stay.
© Source travel watch