Japan Expressway Crash Leaves One Dead and Dozens Hurt Amid Heavy Snow

A major crash on a snow-covered road in Japan killed one person and hurt 26 others late Friday. The pile-up happened on the Kan-etsu Expressway in Minakami, a mountain town northwest of Tokyo. Police said the crash began when two trucks hit each other during heavy snow. The main keyword with the highest search volume from this title is Japan expressway crash.

According to The Associated Press, the accident came as millions in Japan began New Year holiday travel. Police said snow made the road slick, and many drivers could not stop in time before joining the crash.

Japan Expressway Crash Disrupts Holiday Travel

Police in Gunma prefecture said more than 50 vehicles were involved. They confirmed the death of a 77-year-old woman from Tokyo. Five of the 26 injured people are in serious condition. These details were reported by AP and other major outlets.

Officers said blocked lanes kept cars from avoiding the pile-up. Many vehicles came from behind at normal speed and slid on the icy road. A warning for heavy snow had been issued earlier on Friday evening, when roads were still busy.

A fire also broke out at the far end of the crash site. Police said more than a dozen cars burned. The fire was put out after about seven hours. No new injuries came from the flames.

Snow in this region can fall quickly and cause sudden whiteout conditions. AP reported that the storm began just as travelers were leaving major cities. The expressway stayed partly closed as crews removed wreckage.

Heavy Snow Raises Safety Concerns for Japan’s Holiday Roads

Japan faces rising risks during winter travel each year. Roads in mountain areas freeze fast and can stay icy for long periods. Police said they will increase patrols across key holiday routes.

The crash also highlights how one collision can trigger a larger event. When trucks hit, the road blocked fast. Drivers behind them had little time to react. This chain reaction is common in heavy snow.

Travel officials warn that more storms are likely in the coming week. They asked drivers to use winter tires and follow real-time weather alerts. The goal is to avoid more crashes as holiday travel continues.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What caused the Japan expressway crash?

Police said two trucks collided first. Snow and ice then caused many cars behind them to slide into the crash. More than 50 vehicles were involved.

Q2: How many people were hurt?

Police confirmed 26 people were injured. Five of them are in serious condition. One woman died at the scene.

Q3: Did the fire increase the injuries?

No. Police said no one was hurt by the fire. But more than a dozen vehicles burned before firefighters put it out.

Q4: Why was the road so dangerous?

Heavy snow made the expressway slick. Drivers could not stop in time. The road was also crowded with holiday travelers.

Q5: Is the expressway open now?

Parts remain closed. Crews are clearing debris and cleaning the road. Police are still investigating.