All Akita Shinkansen bullet train services have been abruptly suspended after torrential rain triggered severe flooding and landslides in northern Japan, causing major travel chaos.
The high-speed rail services connecting Tokyo with Akita were halted on Tuesday afternoon, 9 July, following official landslide warnings issued for the affected regions. Japan's Meteorological Agency had issued its second-highest alert level for parts of Akita and Iwate prefectures, warning of unprecedented rainfall.
Major Disruption on Key Transport Route
East Japan Railway Co. (JR East), the operator of the line, confirmed the complete suspension of services between Morioka and Akita. The drastic measure was implemented as a direct safety response to the extreme weather conditions battering the region.
Passengers already en route faced significant delays and unexpected strandings. "We sincerely apologise for the tremendous inconvenience caused to our passengers," a JR East representative stated, acknowledging the widespread disruption.
Safety First as Landslide Risk Soars
The decision underscores the severe impact of the intense rainfall, which has dramatically increased the risk of devastating landslides. Such natural disasters pose a critical threat to railway infrastructure and passenger safety.
There is currently no estimated time for the resumption of services. JR East officials have confirmed that operations will only restart once a thorough safety inspection of the tracks has been completed and the severe weather warnings have been lifted.
Passengers Advised to Seek Alternatives
Travelers are being urgently advised to check the latest updates from JR East before attempting to travel and to consider alternative transport arrangements. The suspension is a stark reminder of how extreme weather events can cripple even the world's most advanced and reliable transport systems.
