Debris scattered across the Sanyo Expressway on Monday caused about 10 vehicles to suffer tire punctures [1].
The incident created significant traffic disruptions and safety hazards on a major transit artery, forcing authorities to shut down a key section of the highway to clear hazardous materials.
Authorities received reports of the incident around 11:40 a.m. [2] on July 20, 2026 [3]. The debris, consisting of timber and nails, was found scattered near the Yahata Parking Area [1].
Police and officials from NEXCO West Japan responded to the scene to manage the aftermath. The debris caused punctures in about 10 cars [1]. Due to the nature of the hazards, officials implemented a road closure between the Mihara-Kui Interchange and the Onomichi Interchange [4].
Investigators believe the punctures were caused by the timber and nails falling onto the roadway [1]. The exact source of the fallen materials remains under investigation by local police and road management teams.
Traffic was halted in the inbound lanes as crews worked to remove the sharp objects and wood fragments. The closure affected commuters traveling through the Hiroshima region, though the specific number of delayed travelers was not provided. Police said they have not yet identified a vehicle responsible for the spill.
“About 10 vehicles suffered punctures after timber and nails scattered across a highway.”
This incident highlights the immediate danger posed by unsecured cargo on high-speed expressways. When industrial materials like nails and timber enter the roadway, they create a 'cluster accident' effect where multiple vehicles are disabled simultaneously, leading to total corridor closures and significant economic delays for logistics and commuters.
