Japan raises alert level to “5” in Fukui following record rainfall and landslides.
- Japan's Meteorological Agency issued a special rainfall warning for Fukui Prefecture.
- Record rainfall exceeded 300 millimeters within 24 hours, causing landslides and flooding.
- Alert level raised to maximum Level 5, later downgraded to Level 4 for evacuations.
- Authorities urged 244,000 residents to take safety measures amid ongoing heavy rainfall.
Japan Issues Special Rainfall Warning in Fukui
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a special warning today for heavy rainfall in Fukui Prefecture, located in central Japan. The region experienced record rainfall, exceeding 300 millimeters in just 24 hours. This extreme weather has led to landslides, rising river levels, and flooding of homes and roads.
Alert Level Raised to Maximum
In response to the severe conditions, the JMA elevated the warning level to Level 5, the highest on its scale, for the cities of Fukui, Ono, and Katsuyama. Authorities warned residents of potential disasters or imminent threats. Later, the agency downgraded the alert to Level 4, which calls for evacuations in high-risk areas.
Evacuations Affect Thousands
Authorities urged approximately 244,000 individuals to take emergency safety measures. Additionally, they requested 111,000 residents in five municipalities to evacuate their homes as heavy rains continued to fall.
Flooding and Vehicle Disruptions
Cities such as Katsuyama, Sakai, and Fukui recorded unprecedented rainfall, resulting in:
- Rising river levels
- Flooding of homes and roads
- Vehicle disruptions due to inundation
Continued Heavy Rainfall Expected
The JMA forecasts that heavy rainfall will persist across large areas from western to eastern Japan. Rainfall amounts could reach up to:
- 120 millimeters in the Hokuriku region
- 80 millimeters in the Chugoku region
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols as the situation develops.
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