Japan faces mixed rain and extreme heat as summer approaches

A weekend weather outlook shows contrasting conditions across Japan. The rain front will linger over western Japan, bringing heavy rain to Kyushu, Shikoku and the Chugoku region, with a risk of river flooding, low‑lying inundation and landslides, especially in northern Kyushu. Meanwhile eastern Japan is expected to enjoy clearer skies, though occasional showers remain possible. A high‑pressure ridge will push warm air north, causing unusually high temperatures in Hokkaido, where the foehn effect could push daytime highs close to 30 °C, prompting heat‑stroke warnings.

In Fukushima Prefecture, the typical “rainy‑season chill” will give way to a brief spell of sunshine on Saturday, but temperatures will quickly climb to the upper 20s (up to 29 °C in Aizuwakamatsu and Tadami). Meteorologists warn that the rapid warming raises the risk of heat‑related illness, advising frequent hydration. Typhoon 9 is forecast to track westward away from Fukushima, though later in the week remnants of tropical moisture could bring heavy rain. A stronger heat wave is expected from early July, with forecasts of up to 33 °C in several cities, prompting calls for early preparation for the summer heat.