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© Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.Heavy snow strands scores of vehicles on a main expressway in central Japan
By MARI YAMAGUCHI TOKYO©2025 GPlusMedia Inc.
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WA4TKG
Not here in Okinawa, Zen / zen , lol
GillislowTier
I’ll never understand the obsession to go to work or anywhere when there is heavy snow or typhoon in this country. The. Being surprised that it takes hours to get there or becoming stranded
AramaTaihenNoYouDidnt
In a baffling scenario, heavy snowfall wreaks havoc on central Japan's main expressway as scores of vehicles find themselves stranded amidst a glaring delay in plowing and salting operations beforehand. Despite Japan's reputation for efficiency, the nation faces criticism over its sluggish response to winter weather, leaving commuters trapped in a wintry nightmare. The question looms large: Why is a country known for its precision and preparedness falling short when it comes to battling the elements on its expressways? It will be interesting to explore the causes behind Japan's surprising slowdown in addressing snow-related challenges, as frustrated travelers seek answers in the icy aftermath of a transportation debacle.
nandakandamanda
Warnings were given repeatedly to stay off the roads bcause of heavy snow forecast. Even if most of these vehicles had winter tires/tyres fitted, all it takes is for a single truckwith worn ones to jackknife and block all the lanes. In blizzard conditions, as the article says, snow removal cannot then keep up as the snow will accumulate faster than can be removed from between the jammed vehicles.
masterblaster
Selfish drivers driving about with regular tires.
kohakuebisu
Presumably the trucks that initially got stuck and blocked the highway were moving stuff for just-in-time deliveries.
It's hindsight, but weather forecasting is very good now. What should have happened was the highway people setting up a tyre inspection roadblock earlier and not letting anyone on with normal tyres. Such roadblocks are common in the snowier parts of Japan. fwiw, the Japan Highway Authority is a quasi public body notorious for amakudari and wasting money. TV specials have shown them having half empty staff accommodation in posh parts of Tokyo were management can stay for pennies.
Villanova
@Gillislow
If you go to Hokuriku or Tohoku the snow is the norm not the exception. You won't get anything done in the winter with your attitude.
DanteKH
Hope everybody stranded on expressway is fine.
But I found overly callows that they still collect the over expensive highway toll tax, even after being stranded there for several hours.