03 Jul 2023 | 04:44 AM UTC
Japan: Adverse weather forecast across Kyushu through at least July 4
Severe weather forecast across Kyushu, Japan, through July 4. Evacuations ongoing.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across Kyushu through at least July 4. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned that the heavy rainfall could trigger flooding and landslides in the region. The JMA has issued purple (the highest level on a three-tier scale) landslide warnings across southern and northeastern Fukuoka, northern and central Kumamoto, northwestern Miyazaki, and western Oita prefectures and red heavy rain, landslide, and flood warnings across most of the rest of Kyushu. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and days.
Authorities have issued evacuation orders due to the risk of flooding and landslides, including more than 115,800 people in Kurume City in Fukuoka Prefecture, 363,000 people in Kumamoto City in Kumamoto Prefecture, and thousands of people across the rest of Kyushu. A bridge over the national highway in Yamato, Kumamoto Prefecture, has collapsed.
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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue further mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming hours. 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 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.
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.
