Japan issues new safety guidelines for underpass flooding

Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has released new guidelines to address the risks of flooding in underpasses. The move follows recent incidents, including a fatal accident in Kashima, Iwaki City, where a vehicle became submerged during heavy rain.

The guidelines require road managers to categorize underpasses into four risk levels and implement measures such as installing remote barriers and electronic signage to prevent entry. Under certain conditions, such as the issuance of a ‘Level 4 Heavy Rain Danger Warning’, proactive traffic restrictions will be encouraged.

In Kyoto, local community groups are also taking action to increase awareness. Residents in areas like Ukyo-ku have begun using digital platforms to warn neighbors against entering underpasses during heavy rainfall, reflecting growing public anxiety over the speed at which these locations can flood.