Heavy rain and flooding impact Ishikawa and Niigata regions in Japan

Heavy rainfall and high tides have caused significant flooding across parts of Japan, particularly in Ishikawa and Niigata prefectures.

In Ishikawa Prefecture, Nanao City was issued a Level 3 heavy rain warning following intense downpours. In Anamizu, roads and farmland were inundated due to high tides, with water depths reaching approximately 40 centimeters near temporary housing complexes. The flooding disrupted transportation, causing the JR Nanao Line to suspend service between Hakui and Wakura Onsen stations for several hours, while Noto Railway implemented bus substitution services. Residents expressed concern as the region remains vulnerable due to land subsidence from the Noto Peninsula Earthquake.

In Niigata City, Mayor Hachi Nakahara has urged citizens to take self-help measures following severe flooding in July that impacted multiple buildings. While the city is working on rainwater bypass pipe construction to improve drainage capacity, full implementation in certain areas is not expected until fiscal year 2028. The city is offering subsidies of up to 500,000 yen for the installation of flood barriers to help residents mitigate future risks.