18 Mar 2022 | 03:35 AM UTC
Japan: Severe weather forecast in western regions through at least early March 19.
hEavy rain and thunderstorms forecast in western Japan through at least early March 19. Disruptions possible.
Event
Thunderstorms and heavy rains bringing possible floods and landslides are forecast for Kyushu as well as the Amami and Okinawa regions through at least early March 19. The Japan Meteorological Administration has issued the following warnings:
Red (the second-highest level on a three-tier scale) storm warnings: northern and western Nagasaki Prefecture
Yellow advisories: the rest of the affected area
Authorities have warned of heavy rain with lightning across the Ryukyu Islands and the Pacific Ocean coasts of western Japan from March 18. Landslides, flash floods, floods, and tornadoes are possible. Forecast models indicate rain of 15 cm (6 inches) over southern Kyushu, 10 cm (4 inches) over the Okinawa region, and 8 cm (3 inches) over the Amami region.
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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. All Nippon Airways has warned of possible flight cancelations or delays at Miyazaki (KMI) and Kagoshima (KOJ) airports due to poor visibility. Flight cancelations or delays are possible on Japan Airlines flights at Kitadaito (KTD), Kagoshima (KOJ), and Minami-Daito (MMD) airports due to poor visibility and at New Tanegashima (TNE), Yakushima (KUM), and Okinoerabu (OKE) airports due to strong winds and poor visibility.
Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. 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.
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.
