Some sections of expressways in the Tokyo metropolitan area are likely to be closed on Friday as heavy snowfall is expected.

The Metropolitan Expressway Company says it may close some of its Shuto Kosoku-doro routes as a precaution to prevent vehicles from becoming stranded.

The sections that are likely to be closed include one between the Oi and Kumanocho junctions and another between the Itabashi and Kohoku junctions on the Central Circular Route.

Parts of the Bayshore and Saitama Shintoshin routes may also be closed.

The expressway company warns that more sections could be closed, depending on the amount of snowfall. It is urging motorists to fit winter tires or carry snow chains, and not to drive with regular tires.

East Nippon Expressway Company, which operates the Kanetsu Expressway, and Central Nippon Expressway Company, which manages the Tomei Expressway, say they are not planning to implement partial closures, but they may do so if there is heavy snowfall.

The transport ministry says it may close 20 sections of national roads in the Tokyo area that have steep slopes.