Record Rainfall Hits Kyushu, Japan, Causing Flood Alerts and Travel Chaos

Since August 9, 2025, torrential rains have pounded Japan’s Kyushu region, with Kumamoto Prefecture recording unprecedented rainfall, triggering the Japan Meteorological Agency’s highest-level emergency rain warnings. The extreme weather has disrupted transportation, halting the Kyushu Shinkansen and stranding passengers during the Obon holiday.

Kumamoto City and Kosa Town saw over 500 millimeters of rain, while Kumamoto Airport recorded 448 millimeters. The JMA issued Level 5 warnings for Uki, Tamana, Yatsushiro, Uto, Nagasu, and Kamiamakusa, urging residents to take immediate action due to risks of flooding and landslides. Fukuoka Prefecture also faced heavy rain, with Shingu Town and Kurume City recording over 110 millimeters in an hour on August 11, prompting rare short-duration rain alerts.

The JMA forecasts up to 250 millimeters of rain in northern Kyushu by August 12, with 200 millimeters in Tokai and Shikoku, 180 millimeters in Kinki, and 120 millimeters in southern Kyushu and Hokuriku. Low-lying areas and rivers face flooding risks.

Transportation disruptions include the suspension of the Kyushu Shinkansen and parts of the Sanyo Shinkansen, with JR West and JR Kyushu opening trains for stranded passengers at Hakata and other stations. While Sanyo Shinkansen services have resumed, delays persist, and Kyushu Shinkansen and other lines remain suspended. At Hakata Station, crowded platforms and fully booked hotels have left travelers stranded.

In Tamana City, 284 millimeters of rain fell in three hours on August 10, surpassing the monthly average. Misato Town and Uki City recorded 120 and 110 millimeters in an hour early on August 11. The JMA warns of continued heavy rain in Kumamoto and Nagasaki, urging residents to stay vigilant to avoid loss of life and property.