TOKYO: Linear precipitation bands, which could sharply increase the risk of a heavy rain disaster, could occur later in the day in Tokyo and the surrounding areas, the government announced Sunday.
In light of a heavy rain forecast, East Japan Railway Co., known as JR East, is warning that delays and service suspensions may occur from Sunday night through Monday. The railway is urging passengers to pay close attention to future weather and service updates.
The Japan Meteorological Agency made the announcement regarding heavy rain at 10:52 a.m. Sunday, reporting that linear precipitation bands could form above Tokyo, Saitama, Kanagawa and Chiba prefectures from late Sunday night until noon on Monday.
The agency is urging residents in these areas to be vigilant about heavy rain and check hazard maps, evacuation shelters and evacuation routes.
According to the agency, the 24-hour rainfall total from 6:00 a.m. on Sunday through Monday is forecast to reach 300 millimetres in the Tokai region; 250 millimetres in the southern Kanto region, which includes Tokyo; 200 millimetres in the Kinki region; and 150 millimetres in the northern Kanto region, the Koshin region, the Shikoku region and southern Kyushu.
If a linear precipitation band forms, there is a risk of even heavier rainfall in some areas. - Japan Today/ANN
