Heavy rain is forecast across western Japan on May 19, 2024, with intense rainfall expected in the Kyushu region [1].
The weather system poses a significant risk of flooding and landslides in southern areas before the rain front shifts toward eastern Japan and Tōhoku over the weekend [1].
Forecasters said rain intensity in Kyushu is expected to exceed 50 mm per hour [2]. This surge in precipitation is driven by a rain front associated with a low-pressure area located near the southern sea [2].
Simultaneously, a tropical depression has formed over the southern sea. Meteorologists said this system is expected to develop into Typhoon 7 within 24 hours [2].
The rain system is projected to move east on May 20 and May 21, 2024 [1]. While western regions face storm conditions, other cities will see high temperatures. Tokyo is forecast to reach a maximum temperature of 30 °C, while Osaka is expected to hit 32 °C [1].
Local authorities said they are monitoring the development of the tropical depression as it evolves into a named typhoon. The combination of the existing rain front and the emerging storm increases the likelihood of widespread disruption across the archipelago [2].
“Rain intensity in Kyushu expected to exceed 50 mm per hour”
The simultaneous occurrence of a low-pressure rain front and the rapid intensification of a tropical depression into Typhoon 7 creates a compounding weather risk. This pattern suggests that western Japan will face acute flooding risks first, followed by a broader regional impact as the system migrates east, potentially disrupting transportation and infrastructure across the country.
