10 Jul 2021 | 02:05 PM UTC
Japan: Authorities issue weather warnings for parts of Kumamoto and Kagoshima through July 11
Authorities issue weather warnings for parts of Kumamoto and Kagoshima, Japan, through July 11; business and transport disruptions likely.
Event
The Japan Meteorological Administration has issued warnings for heavy rainfall, which could lead to landslides and flooding for parts of Kumamoto and Kagoshima through at least July 11. Authorities have issued purple warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) for heavy rainfall and landslides and red warnings (the second-highest level) for flooding in Satsuma, Kagoshima, until at least 06:00 July 11. Purple warnings for heavy rain and landslides are in effect until at least 12:00 July 11 for Amakusa Ashikita and Kuma, Kumamoto, while red warnings are in place for heavy rain and landslides in Kumamoto and Aso, Kumamoto for the same time period. Yellow warnings for thunderstorms and flooding in addition to tornado advisories are in effect for all of Kumamoto, likely through July 12.
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 located 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. 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, 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 regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
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.
