A very strong atmospheric winter pressure pattern continues to affect the Fukuoka area. Below are some bits of information that we have gleaned from Japanese media sources regarding the forecast, transportation and closures. The situation is changing constantly, so this information may become out of date at any time. So please do NOT rely on this information entirely; please reconfirm with other sources as required.
• The city subway system is operating. (with some delays The Airport line and Hakozaki Line). Nanakuma Line was back on schedule as of 10:30am)
• The Fukuoka and Kitakyushu Urban Expressway are still closed.
• Nishitetsu Bus: all operations suspended (excluding a few routes, service resuming where and when possible).
• Nishitetsu Bus (Highway): operation for all 33 lines suspended.
• Nishitetsu Omuta Line: running (on delayed schedule)
• ANA flights connecting Haneda – Fukuoka were cancelled.
• Over 80 flights connecting Western Japan were cancelled.
• Warnings of snowfall throughout the daytime in all areas in Fukuoka Pref. (not significant in the Fukuoka City area though).
• Warnings of avalanches and snow falling (off roofs, for example) in the Prefecture.
• Monday morning ~ late evening: 1~3cm of snowfall predicted for Fukuoka Prefecture. 1 cm for Fukuoka City & by Kitakyushu by 17:00
• As of morning of Jan. 24: over 153 people injured in Fukuoka Pref. (car accidents, slipped on ice, etc.).
• There have been reports of frozen water pipes (at least 360 cases) in Fukuoka/Kitakyushu area.
• People are still advised to refrain from leaving their homes unless necessary.
• All municipal kindergartens, Special Education Schools, ES and MS are closed today.
(Photo courtesy of Shayne Bowden)
