Heavy Rain Triggers Floods and Mudslides in Southern Japan

Tone & Political Bias: Center – Focuses on factual reporting of weather events and government response without political commentary.

Why: The report sticks to verified events, official statements, and public safety information.

Torrential Rains Batter Kyushu

Heavy rainfall struck Japan’s southern Kyushu island on Friday, causing floods, landslides, and widespread disruption. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued its highest-level warnings for parts of the region, urging residents to take immediate precautions.

According to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, a mudslide in Aira city, Kagoshima prefecture, buried a house with two people inside. Both were rescued alive and taken to a hospital.

Evacuations and Safety Warnings

Authorities issued evacuation advisories to more than 360,000 residents in Kagoshima prefecture and neighboring Miyazaki.

Evacuation centers have been opened across affected areas.
JMA officials warn the risk of further disasters remains high due to ongoing rain.

At a nationally televised briefing, JMA official Shuichi Tachihara urged early precautions, citing the danger of additional floods and landslides.

Severe Impact on Transportation

Local transport systems have been severely affected:

Train and bus services in several parts of Kyushu have been suspended.
Dozens of domestic flights in and out of Kagoshima were canceled.

In Kirishima city, television footage showed floodwater reaching knee level inside a shopping mall, with muddy currents rushing down swollen rivers.

Government Response

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced the formation of a government task force to coordinate emergency support.

“The government will do everything to protect your life and safety,” Ishiba stated.

The emergency response includes coordination between national agencies, local governments, and disaster relief units to support evacuation and rescue efforts.

Forecast and Ongoing Risk

The JMA attributes the extreme rainfall to a low-pressure system over the region, predicting heavy rain and thunderstorms will continue through Friday.

Persistent downpours increase the risk of flash floods and further landslides.
Authorities urge residents to monitor evacuation orders closely and avoid unnecessary travel.

Key Numbers at a Glance

360,000+ people advised to evacuate.
2 individuals were rescued from a mudslide in Aira city.
Dozens of flights canceled in Kagoshima.
Multiple train and bus services were halted.