Japan's weather services warned of heavy rain risks in Hokuriku and sudden thunderstorms across many regions for Aug. 27, 2024 [1, 2].
These conditions pose a significant risk of flooding and landslides, particularly in areas where a new line-shaped rain band is expected to develop [1, 2].
The Hokuriku region, specifically Ishikawa and Toyama prefectures, faces the highest risk. Forecasts indicate 24-hour rainfall of 180 mm [1] for the area. Other regions are also expected to see significant precipitation, including 150 mm [1] in the Kanto-Koshin-Tokai region, 120 mm [1] in the Hokkaido-Tohoku region, and 80 mm [1] in the Kansai region.
Meteorological conditions are expected to produce rapid thunderstorm development across the country [1, 2]. This instability is coinciding with unusually hot temperatures for late August.
In the south and west, temperatures are expected to reach extreme levels. Fukuoka is predicted to hit a high of 37 °C [1], while Osaka is expected to reach 35 °C [1]. Other major cities will also experience high heat, with Tokyo predicted at 32 °C [1] and Sapporo at 28 °C [1].
Residents in the Hokuriku region are advised to remain vigilant as the prolonged heavy rain increases the likelihood of weather-related disasters [1].
“Hokuriku region faces the highest risk with 180 mm of forecasted rainfall.”
The combination of extreme heat and concentrated, heavy rainfall indicates a period of high atmospheric instability. The emergence of line-shaped rain bands is particularly concerning for Japan, as these systems often lead to localized flooding and landslides that can overwhelm urban drainage and rural slopes.
