Heavy rainfall since this weekend has prompted authorities to issue the highest level of meteorological alert in southwestern Japan. The latest official tally shows six deaths, three people missing, and two people lightly injured. Government spokesperson Hirakazu Matsuno told reporters that the downpour, which has hit Fukuoka and Oita prefectures especially hard, has flooded towns and caused landslides, raising the risk that the death toll could climb as teams continue their search and rescue operations.
Earlier today, authorities reported widespread disruption: twelve highways remained closed, eleven train lines were suspended, about 1,400 homes lost electricity, nearly 200 lost access to water, and telecommunications networks faced intermittent issues across Fukuoka and Oita. These updates underscore the scale of impact as responders work through damaged infrastructure and stranded communities.
In Nakatsu, a city in Oita Prefecture, rescuers continued to search for a woman in her 50s whose car disappeared the previous day, according to the NHK public broadcaster. The search highlights ongoing concerns as swift currents and collapsed roadways hinder ongoing rescue efforts.
National authorities activated the special meteorological warning for such disasters on Monday morning but lowered the alert level later as the weather system moved eastward. These warnings, issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency, denote exceedingly high risk when heavy rain and related hazards threaten communities. Officials stressed continued vigilance as additional rain is forecast and floodwaters may remain unsettled in many areas.
While the southern regions shoulder the heaviest rainfall, temperatures across the archipelago remain extreme. Central Japan could see temperatures around 37 degrees Celsius, Tokyo around 35 degrees, and nearby Saitama Prefecture near 36 degrees. Chiba Province to the east might experience about 33 degrees, highlighting a heat element that compounds the damage from floods and landslides. Public health officials remind residents to stay hydrated and avoid exposure during peak sun hours as communities rebuild and recover.
The weather system aside, local authorities are coordinating disaster-relief resources, including temporary shelters, food supplies, and medical support, to assist affected residents. Emergency services advise motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, follow official guidance, and monitor local broadcasts for the latest safety instructions. Community organizations are also mobilizing volunteers to help with cleanup, debris removal, and distribution of essentials, underscoring the broad, collective response needed to weather this event.
Experts note that climate-related heavy rain events have been increasing in frequency and intensity in various regions, driven by shifting meteorological patterns. Officials emphasize the importance of early warnings, rapid evacuations when advised, and preparedness measures to reduce potential harm from such downpours in the future. While the immediate focus remains on rescue and relief, authorities continue to assess the evolving situation and work toward restoring essential services across affected zones.
Residents across the affected prefectures are urged to stay tuned to official channels for updates and to comply with evacuation orders if issued. As the front responsible for the heavy rainfall moves east, authorities anticipate continued localized risks and the potential for further weather-related disturbances in nearby areas. In the meantime, the priority remains safeguarding lives, stabilizing communities, and accelerating recovery efforts as floodwaters recede and infrastructure is restored.