16 Jun 2023 | 04:52 AM UTC
Japan: Adverse weather forecast across eastern regions through at least June 16
Severe weather forecast across eastern Japan through at least June 16. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is forecast across eastern Japan through at least June 16. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued orange (middle level on a three-tier scale) heavy rain, flood, and landslide warnings across western Iwate and eastern Miyagi prefectures. Yellow advisories are in place across the rest of the affected area. Residents should be vigilant for strong winds, lightning, tornadoes, and hail. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days. Authorities in Tome City, Miyagi Prefecture, have warned that the Futamata River is at risk of flooding.
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 downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. 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 affected areas. 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.
