Intense rains, triggered by typhoon number 7 and a cold front, are already causing extensive disruptions to transport services. Next Saturday, the 27th, typhoons number 7 and 8 are expected to approach the island of Honshu, raising concerns about the effects in the Tokai and Kanto areas.
Travelers are advised to check official communications from transport operators, not just in advance, but constantly throughout the day of travel, ensuring extra time for their journeys. This continued vigilance is crucial because weather conditions can change drastically within hours, impacting routes and schedules that initially seemed safe.
Possible closures and restrictions on Kanto and Tokai highways for Saturday
Western Japan has already recorded road closures due to localized rainfall resulting from Typhoon 7 and the seasonal front. Torrential rain and storms are expected in the Tokai region during the night of this Friday, the 26th, with the weather effects projecting to the east.
Even with a possible reduction in the intensity of rain in the west of the country, the consequences may last. Additionally, on Saturday the 27th, there is a high chance of speed limits and closures being imposed on certain road sections in the Kanto and Koshin areas.
Preventive measures in traffic may be adopted, depending on the weather conditions, even before a substantial worsening, with the primary aim of ensuring the integrity of drivers.
Even though high-speed highways remain passable, common roads may experience flooding, especially in underpasses and low-lying regions, making flow difficult. It is prudent to check not only the condition of the expressways, but also the condition of all roads up to the point of arrival.
Shinkansen may experience disruptions, including on the Tokaido and Tohoku lines
Until late afternoon today, at 4pm, there was no report of widespread stoppages in Shinkansen services. However, there is a considerable risk of interruptions in the operations of the Tokaido Shinkansen and Tohoku Shinkansen lines for Saturday, the 27th. Although the Shinkansen demonstrates greater resilience to weather phenomena than conventional railway lines, safety is a priority, and in the event of extreme winds or rain, trains may have their speed reduced or circulation completely interrupted.
The operating hours may change abruptly, depending on the typhoon’s route and the strength of the precipitation. Those who plan to use the Shinkansen for professional commitments or leisure time are advised to check the latest updates on the service, not only the night before, but also on the day of the journey, allowing extra time for the journey.
Conventional trains face widespread disruptions in the west and Tokyo on Saturday
Conventional rail services have already seen cancellations and reductions across a vast swath of western Japan, encompassing the Kinki area. Additionally, some routes had their operations suspended since the morning due to the intense volume of rain.
New service suspensions or considerable delays may occur on lines that were not initially expected to be affected, depending on the evolution of rain and wind conditions.
Next Saturday, the 27th, with the typhoon’s closest approach to the Tokai and Kanto regions, cancellations and delays are likely to occur in the Tokyo metropolitan area as well.
Anyone with travel plans should constantly monitor railway line service notices and ensure additional time for travel.
Aviation anticipates relevant impact in the Kanto region on Saturday morning
Due to the arrival and passage of typhoon number 7, some airlines canceled flights this Friday, the 26th, mainly in the southwestern islands. Delays and special operating conditions may progressively expand to western Japan and the Tokai area.
For tomorrow, Saturday, the 27th, typhoons number 7 and 8 have the potential to impact the Tokai and Kanto regions.
Specifically, the Kanto region may experience significant cancellations and delays, especially during the morning. Those who have flights scheduled should consult the updated information directly with the respective airline.
Even if air operations occur normally, arrival at the destination can be compromised by rain and strong winds, which tend to affect other modes such as trains, buses and highways. It is highly recommended to investigate transport alternatives from the airport to the final point in advance, always allowing additional time for the entire journey.