Japan: Adverse weather forecast across most of country until at least Dec. 1 /update 1

Severe weather is forecast across most of Japan until at least Dec. 1. As of early Nov. 29, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned residents to be vigilant for landslides in the Hokuriku and Tohoku regions and lightning, tornadoes, strong wind, and hail across northern and western Japan from Nov. 30. Rainfall of 8 cm (3 inches) over the Tohoku region and 10 cm (4 inches) over the Hokuriku region are forecast Nov. 29 and 6 cm (2.5 inches) over the Tohoku region and 10 cm (4 inches) over the Hokuriku region Nov. 30-early Dec. 1. The JMA has issued the following weather warnings across the affected areas:

• Purple landslide warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Niigata Prefecture.

• Red heavy rain warnings: Ishikawa Prefecture.

• Red heavy rain and landslide warnings: western Akita and western Toyama prefectures.

• Red high wave warnings: Ishikawa Prefecture.

• Yellow warnings: Across most of the rest of Japan.

Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions develop over the coming days.

Authorities have issued purple (the second-highest level on a five-tier scale) for Nishikan Ward in Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture, due to the risk of landslides. Officials have suspended some Super Matsukaze and Super Oki train services; they will likely resume Nov. 30.

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 rain has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are likely where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces will probably cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will likely temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather will also probably cause intermittent flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected regions, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Authorities will likely suspend port operations or close beachfronts temporarily if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding will probably block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that experience heavy rainfall and track inundation. Localized business disruptions are possible in low-lying areas.