14 Jun 2023 | 07:30 AM UTC
Japan: Adverse weather forecast across Okinawa Prefecture through at least June 15
Severe weather forecast across Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, through June 15. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is forecast across Okinawa Prefecture through at least June 15. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued purple (highest level on a tree-tier scale) landslide warnings and orange heavy rain and flood warnings across central and southern Okinawa Island. Yellow heavy rain, thunderstorm, flood, and high wave advisories are in place across the rest of Okinawa Prefecture. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Authorities have issued evacuation orders across Naha and Tomigusuku cities due to the risk of landslides. Evacuation orders for the elderly and vulnerable are in place across Itoman and Nanjo cities.
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 further 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.
