This study examines mesh prediction models created by integrating radar data and surface data collected by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and the Hokkaido Regional Development Bureau. A case study of a heavy snowstorm quantifies the reliability of information obtained using horizontal meshes of 20 km, 5 km and 1 km. The effect of the use of mesh prediction models on winter road management also is described. Since this study's subject is winter road information, it focuses on mesh snowfall information. Thecase study concerns the heavy snowfall that occurred in eastern Hokkaido from January 13 to 16, 2004. This storm brought about 1 m of snowfall, which led to the closure of 842 km of national highway (37 sections on 20 routes). This paper examines the reliability of some mesh weather models and proposed ways of using the mesh weather information in road management. Infuture, a 1-km-mesh weather forecast model that combines RAA and JW1M will be developed for more finely targeted support of road management decisions on ice and snow control. The studies introduced in this paper will helproad managers to make early decisions on winter road management and to take measures that properly address the natural conditions. This is expectedto enhance road user satisfaction with road services. When there is the possibility of snowfall, the road managers will be able to make sound decisions on traffic restrictions, thereby minimizing the adverse effects of the snowfall and the time required for traffic restoration. For the coveringabstract see ITRD E143097.
Abstract