Torrential rain expected to hit Japan's southern Kyushu and Amami island regions

TOKYO -- Southwestern Japan's southern Kyushu and Amami regions are forecast to be hit by extremely powerful rain and thunderstorms from June 15 through to 16, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).

Over the 24-hour period ending at 6 a.m. on June 16, the JMA projects that southern Kyushu will see up to 120 millimeters of rainfall, while the Amami region of islands is expected to receive up to 100 millimeters. It is also warning of dangers presented by potential landslides, rising water levels in rivers, water inundation in low-lying land, and strong gales with phenomena including lightning and tornadoes.

The rainy season's front has stalled over the area around southern Kyushu, bringing a hot and moist air mass that the JMA says will make the atmosphere very unstable. The agency said, "If there are signs that developed cumulonimbus clouds are approaching, please make efforts to stay indoors and ensure your safety."

(Japanese original by Akiko Mabuchi, Web Operations Center)