Japan: Heavy rainfall ongoing across the Amami Islands and parts of Okinawa Prefecture early Nov. 9

Heavy rainfall is ongoing across parts of the Ryukyu Islands Nov. 9. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued a weather bulletin warning that continuous heavy rainfall associated with a linear rain band is bringing an increasing risk of flooding and landslides to the Amami Islands and Okinawa Island early Nov. 9. Rainfall totals of 12 cm (4.7 inches) in an hour were recorded across parts of Okinawa late Nov. 8 and further heavy downpours are likely over the coming hours. Thunderstorms and associated strong winds, lightning, and possible tornadoes may accompany the downpours. Officials have issued red evacuation orders for the elderly and other vulnerable groups (the middle level of evacuation order on a five-tier scale) for Ogimi Village in Okinawa Prefecture.

The JMA has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area Nov. 9:

• Purple heavy rainfall and landslide warnings (the second highest level on a four-tier scale): The Amami Islands and northern Okinawa Prefecture.

• Red heavy rainfall and flood warnings: The Amami Islands and northern Okinawa Prefecture.

• Yellow high wave warnings: The Amami Islands and parts of central and northern Okinawa Prefecture.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: The Amami Islands and across Okinawa Prefecture.

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

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

Severe weather will also likely trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Authorities will probably suspend port operations or close beach fronts temporarily if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding will likely block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are probable in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions will likely occur in low-lying areas.