Weather Officials Warn Of Possible Landslides In Northern Japan
Weather officials in Japan are warning of possible rain-related disasters mainly in the northern part of the country, as a front and moist air have been bringing downpours there.
The Meteorological Agency says rain clouds have been developing in the region due to a low-pressure system and a front stretching over coastal areas of the Pacific Ocean.
In Kushiro City in the northern prefecture of Hokkaido, 123 millimeters of rain fell in the 24 hours through 5 p.m. on Sunday. That exceeds the average for the entire month of July.
Atmospheric conditions are expected to remain unstable through late Sunday in the Tohoku region, and through early Monday in Hokkaido.
The ground has loosened and rivers have risen in some areas, raising the risk of disasters.
Meanwhile, atmospheric conditions are expected to become unstable again in western Japan from Monday as a low pressure system on the rain front moves toward the Sea of Japan.
Localized downpours with thunder are expected from early Monday in the northern part of the Kyushu region, and from Monday night in the Chugoku region and southern Kyushu. Localized torrential rains of more than 50 millimeters per hour are possible.
In the 24 hours through Monday evening, up to 100 millimeters of rain is expected in northern Kyushu, up to 80 millimeters in Tohoku and Hokkaido, and up to 60 millimeters in the Chugoku region.
In the 24 hours through Tuesday evening, 200 to 300 millimeters of rain is likely in northern and southern Kyushu. The Chugoku region may get 100 to 150 millimeters.
Weather officials are calling on people to be on the alert for landslides, flooding in low-lying areas and swollen rivers, as well as lightning strikes and gusty winds.
They say eastern Japan may also be hit by heavy rains through Wednesday.
People are advised to check the latest information from local authorities, and be prepared to evacuate to safety.