Japan: Adverse weather forecast across most of country until at least Nov. 29

Severe weather is forecast across most of Japan until at least Nov. 29. As of early Nov. 28, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned of possible heavy rain, lightning, tornadoes, strong wind, and hail across northern and western Japan until Nov. 29. The JMA has issued the following weather warnings across the affected areas:

• Red storm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Northern and eastern Fukuoka, northern Nagasaki, northern Saga, and northern and western Yamaguchi prefectures.

• Red heavy rain and landslide warnings: Western Niigata Prefecture.

• 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. Due to heavy rain, officials have suspended some Super Matsukaze and Super Oki train services, which 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.