Chiba heavy rains cause infrastructure damage and shelter challenges

Recent heavy rainfall in Chiba Prefecture has caused significant infrastructure disruptions and highlighted challenges in managing stranded commuters. In the Awa region, heavy rains in September led to landslides that suspended service on the JR Uchibo Line between Chikura and Anbo-Kamogawa stations, and caused road closures on the Kanaya-Onuki-Chikura prefectural route. Additionally, driftwood impacts have required recovery work at the Megane Bridge in Minamiboso.

In response to the August heavy rains, the Chiba Prefectural Government Office served as a temporary shelter for nearly 1,500 stranded individuals. However, the influx of people was more than double the initial projections, leading to shortages in reception desks and causing many to wait while wet. While blankets and aluminum foil were provided, officials noted a lack of towels in initial stockpiles, which had to be gathered urgently to help evacuees maintain body temperature.

Experts suggest that for future preparedness, individuals should maintain compact, multi-purpose supplies such as towels for temperature regulation, as well as eye masks and earplugs to assist with sleep in crowded shelters.