15 Sep 2023 | 01:59 AM UTC
Japan: Adverse weather forecast across northern Kyushu through at least Sept. 15
Severe weather forecast across northern Kyushu, Japan, through at least Sept. 15. Flooding, landslides, and associated disruptions likely.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across northern Kyushu through at least Sept. 15. As of early Sept. 15, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued purple (highest level on a three-tier scale) heavy rain and landslide warnings across northwestern Fukuoka, northern Nagasaki, and northern Saga prefectures. Yellow thunderstorm advisories are in place across the rest of the affected area. Heavy rainfall may accompany thunderstorms, strong wind gusts, lightning, hail, and possible tornadoes.
Authorities have issued evacuation orders for more than 14,000 people in the Hizen, Chinzei, and Yobuko districts of Karatsu City, Saga. Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions develop over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall will likely trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also probable 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 are likely in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue additional evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows will likely 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 likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions will likely occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, 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.
