Japan experienced widespread heavy rain on Tuesday, leading to disruptions in bullet train services between Tokyo and Osaka and prompting warnings from the weather agency regarding potential landslides and floods. The inclement weather was attributed to an eastward-moving front and a low-pressure system situated along the Pacific Ocean side of the Japanese archipelago. Particularly hard-hit areas such as Kochi and Shizuoka prefectures saw rainfall exceeding 50 millimeters per hour, exacerbating concerns about hazardous conditions.
The Japan Meteorological Agency noted that atmospheric instability, fueled by warm, moisture-laden air converging towards the front and low-pressure system, contributed to the intensification of rainfall across various regions. Over a 24-hour period leading up to Tuesday morning, substantial rainfall totals were recorded, including 293.5 mm in Kumejima, Okinawa, 227.5 mm in Ebino, Miyazaki Prefecture, and 227.0 mm in Yakushima, Kagoshima Prefecture, underscoring the widespread impact of the heavy precipitation.
As a result of the adverse weather conditions, Central Japan Railway Co. announced temporary suspensions and delays in its Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train services running between Tokyo and Osaka. Additionally, evacuation orders were issued for residents of Tanabe and Kamitonda in Wakayama Prefecture due to heightened landslide risks, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness in affected areas.
