TOKYO, Aug 8 — Japan’s weather agency has issued a rare emergency heavy rain warning for the southern region of Kagoshima, cautioning that “lives are at risk” amid unprecedented rainfall.
TOKYO, Aug 8 — Japan’s weather agency has issued a rare emergency heavy rain warning for the southern region of Kagoshima, cautioning that “lives are at risk” amid unprecedented rainfall.
The torrential downpour comes on the heels of a scorching heatwave across the country, with temperatures hitting a record 41.8°C.
“Kagoshima is experiencing rainfall levels it has never seen before,” a Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) official said at a press conference.
“Lives are in danger. We urge residents to prioritise their safety by moving to buildings that are further from rivers or cliffs, or structures less likely to flood,” the official added, warning that hazardous conditions may already be present.
Residents were also advised to evacuate proactively, without waiting for official evacuation orders.
A separate warning from the land ministry highlighted the threat of rivers overflowing due to the relentless rain.
According to Kyodo News, one area in Kagoshima recorded more than 490 millimetres (19 inches) of rainfall in just 24 hours through 4:40 am (1940 GMT Thursday) — the highest ever in the region.
In response to the JMA’s highest-level warning, the city of Kirishima instructed residents to evacuate or take alternative safety precautions.
“Rivers are rising rapidly, with the potential for flooding or breaches already occurring,” the city announced on its website.
As a result of the extreme weather, domestic flights at Kagoshima Airport have been cancelled. — AFP
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