Protecting Against Strong Winds and Gusts
Since a train accident on the Uetsu Main Line in December 2005, we have introduced the major wind-related initiatives described below.
Increased Number of Anemometers (Wind Meters)
We typically install multiple anemometers on sections where windbased
operating restrictions are in effect. We have also increased the
number of anemometers in locations where windbreak fences have
been installed.
To ensure accuracy, we are also moving toward the
installation of dual anemometers.
Installation of Windbreak Fences
We install windbreak fences to protect railcars from the wind.
Utilizing Meteorological Information for the Implementation of Operation Control
We have developed a method to restrict operations using meteorological information, such as rain intensity measured by the Japan Meteorological Agency’s weather radar and the agency’s “nowcasts” on the likelihood of tornadoes, to predict gusts of wind that could be generated by cumulonimbus clouds. We are currently using this system along sections on the Sea of Japan in winter.
- *In FY2025.3, restrictions on operations were issued on three days.
Display Image of Operation Control Area Using Meteorological Information
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Operation Control Method Against Wind Gusts Using Doppler Radar
The system uses a Doppler radar to detect vortices that cause wind gusts by observing the movement of raindrops and other objects in the sky, and it issues an alarm when a train track is located within the predicted path of the vortex. This system was jointly developed with the Japan Meteorological Agency’s Meteorological Research Institute and has been in operation on the Uetsu Main Line and in some sections of the Rikuu West Line since winter 2017. Since then, we have continued to expand the scope of train operation regulations and to improve the accuracy of vortex detection using AI.
- *In FY2025.3, restrictions on operations were issued 23 times (11 calendar days).
Operation Control Method against Wind Gusts Using Doppler Radar
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