For road sections that are subject to advance traffic restrictions, where traffic is restricted during torrential rain before a disaster occurs, the states of rainfall and traffic restrictions are communicated to drivers through the Internet Website, the mobile phone Internet, and information terminals at roadside rest areas. For those who register in advance, such information is automatically sent by E-mail. This system helps drivers to alter their route or postpone driving early on and to provide safe driving conditions.
In June 2001, another service started to automatically provide disaster information through e-mail. From June 2001 to March 2002, the website detailing traffic restrictions attracted approximately 46,000 hits. On June 21, when the area was struck by torrential rain, there were 3,179 hits on one day. Questionnaire surveys and interviews also revealed strong demand for advance road and weather information during unusual weather events.
[Kagoshima National Highway Work Office of the Kyushu Regional Development Bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport]
Provision of rainfall status in the section subject to advance traffic restriction (on internet screen)
Provision of real-time traffic closure information (on Internet screen)
Provision of information on traffic closure during heavy rain
