Heavy rains lashed the greater Tokyo area on Tuesday, with the Meteorological Agency warning of the risk of flooding and landslides.
Warm and moist air, driven by a low-pressure system, has destabilized the atmosphere, causing heavy rainfall in some areas and possibly causing flooded roads, according to the Japan Weather Association, a private weather forecasting organization.
Significant rainfall amounts are expected during the 24 hours through Wednesday morning, with up to 200 millimeters possible in the southern Kanto region, 150 millimeters in Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures, and 120 millimeters in northern Kanto and the Izu Islands.
The low-pressure system is expected to develop further as it moves eastward, potentially bringing hourly precipitation of up to 40 millimeters per hour, accompanied by thunderstorms in local areas in the greater Tokyo area.
Tuesday’s rainfall significantly lowered temperatures in the area. Compared to afternoon temperatures that exceeded 30 degrees Celsius in many areas on Monday, temperatures are expected to reach 19 degrees in Tokyo and 21 degrees in Yokohama, figures normally seen in late April.
East Japan Railway has advised commuters to prepare for possible disruptions through Tuesday evening, with services between Odawara and Atami stations on the Tokaido Line suspended from 2 p.m. The Ito Line between Atami and Ito stations in Shizuoka Prefecture has already been suspended.
In light of the forecast, the Meteorological Agency has urged vigilance against possible hazards including landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, swelling of rivers, lightning strikes, tornadoes and hail.
