Giant Traffic Jam Strands Hundreds After Snow Storm In Japan

Giant traffic jam strands hundreds after snow storm in Japan

Heavy snowfall in northwest Japan stranded more than 2,000 vehicles on highways Thursday. Although that number had fallen to at least 670 by Friday afternoon (Japan time), the company that manages the highways said that it likely would take until Saturday morning for about 700 rescuers to free the remaining cars. Snow had accumulated to several feet deep in places, including at a toll complex. 

Japan's Self-Defense Force has sent troops to deliver food, gasoline and blankets to stranded drivers as well as to help clear snows. According to video by NBC News, some drivers abandoned their vehicles on the road.

Hundreds Of Flights Canceled Due To Typhoon

Hundreds of flights canceled due to typhoon

Japanese airline companies say 557 domestic flights, were canceled on Sunday due to the approach of Typhoon Haishen. Most of the flights were scheduled to depart from or arrive at airports in Okinawa or southern Kyushu.

As of 5 p.m. on Sunday, another 555 flights scheduled for Monday had also been canceled. Most of these were to depart from or arrive at airports in the Kyushu, Shikoku or the Chugoku regions of western Japan.

Hundreds Of Hokkaido Schools Close For Covid-19

Hundreds of Hokkaido schools close for COVID-19

Rising concerns over the spread of the coronavirus are forcing hundreds of schools in Japan's northern prefecture of Hokkaido to close for about a week.

The closure applies to more than 1,600 public elementary, junior high and special needs schools. The majority cancelled classes from Thursday.