02 Dec 2021 | 03:45 AM UTC
Japan: Severe weather forecast over northern and central regions through at least Dec. 3 /update 1
Severe weather forecast over northern and central Japan through at least Dec. 3. Train and ferry disruptions and power outages ongoing.
Event
Thunderstorms and heavy rains bringing possible floods, landslides, lightning, and tornadoes are forecast for northern and central regions through at least Dec. 3. The Japan Meteorological Administration has issued the following warnings:
Red warnings for large waves: Western Akita, western Aomori, most of Hokkaido, Ishikawa, western and northern Niigata, and western Yamagata prefectures.
Yellow gale, heavy rain, and large waves advisories: the rest of the affected area.
Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories in the coming days; officials may issue evacuation orders if weather conditions persist or worsen.
Due to a low-pressure system, lightning, strong winds, and tornadoes are possible along the western coasts of eastern Japan. Heavy snow is also forecast across the Hokkaido region through Dec. 2.
As of early Dec. 2, at least 4,450 households are without power in the Tokachi region, Hokkaido Prefecture, due to damage to utility poles and power lines caused by fallen trees. Repair efforts are underway; the Hokkaido Electric Power Company estimates it can fully restore power by Dec. 3.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides remain possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Officials have closed the bridge over Sakai River near Enoshima Electric Railway Kugenuma Station in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, due to fear of possible damage after a pontoon collided with the girder bridge. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Sea of Japan and the North Pacific Ocean if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Officials have canceled all ferry services between Haboro and Yagishiri and Teuri Islands, between Esashi and Okushiri Island, between Rishiri Island and Rebun Island, between Wakkanai and Rishiri Island, and between Wakkanai and Rebun Island. Authorities have also canceled at least six ferries between Hakodate and Aomori.
Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Authorities have suspended or delayed at least 21 trains in Hokkaido Prefecture.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
