Heavy Rain Temporarily Halts Shinkansen Bullet Train Services Between Tokyo and Hakata
02.11.2024
Heavy rain temporarily halted shinkansen bullet train services between Tokyo and Hakata, Japan. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Japan Meteorological Agency warns that intense rainfall is likely to persist, especially during the first half of the weekend.
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Atmospheric instability could bring hazardous conditions, particularly in western areas on Saturday and eastern regions on Sunday. Travelers and residents should be cautious of potential landslides, river overflows, lightning, and tornadoes as this extreme weather system continues.
JR West, managing the Sanyo Shinkansen Line, reported that rainfall levels had reached safe operational limits on some sections of the track. Services resumed later on Saturday after extensive safety checks confirmed that conditions were stable enough for the trains to continue.
JR Tokai, operating the Tokaido Shinkansen Line, also suspended some services between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka to prevent prolonged disruptions. Their proactive approach allowed them to restart operations quickly, minimizing delays for passengers affected by the rain-related halts.
Weather forecasts indicate a low-pressure system moving east-northeast across the East China Sea, bringing rain and unstable conditions. This system, along with a newly formed low-pressure front, is expected to reach eastern Japan by Saturday night, intensifying the weather.
The entry of warm, humid air into the low-pressure system has exacerbated instability, according to meteorologists. Parts of western Japan have already recorded up to 300 millimeters of rain within 24 hours, showing the heavy impact of this storm system.
Rainfall predictions estimate up to 200 millimeters in the Shikoku region, 180 millimeters in Tokai, and 120 millimeters in Kanto-Koshin, which includes Tokyo, by early Sunday. Authorities are closely monitoring these regions for potential flooding and infrastructure issues.
Shinkansen Bullet Train Services Resume Amid Rainfall Concerns
Despite the severe weather, shinkansen bullet train services resumed after safety checks, prioritizing commuter safety. Passengers are advised to stay informed on service updates and exercise caution while traveling in affected areas.
Meteorologists expect slightly improved conditions later in the holiday weekend, although scattered showers may persist. The Japan Meteorological Agency continues to observe atmospheric developments closely, preparing for any necessary further warnings.
Weather Impact on Shinkansen Bullet Train Services and Public Safety
Some local governments in heavily affected regions are taking proactive measures to ensure public safety. These include evacuation plans and support for residents in high-risk zones, underscoring the need for caution during this period of intense rainfall.
Residents are encouraged to follow local advisories closely and prepare for potential disruptions. Regular updates from meteorologists and authorities help reduce risk and safeguard the community as this weather system affects various parts of Japan.
Safety remains a top priority as Japan faces this intense weather event, impacting transportation and infrastructure across the nation. Coordinated efforts are underway to mitigate the storm’s effects, assisting those impacted by relentless rainfall in many regions.
Photo, source: kyodonews.net
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