Japan: Rising heavy rain frequency prompts calls for better drainage and insurance awareness

A survey conducted by NEXER Group and Fujioka Concrete Industry reveals that 65.4% of respondents in Japan feel that the frequency or intensity of heavy rains and guerrilla rainstorms has increased in recent years. Approximately 26.8% of participants reported concerns regarding poor drainage or flooding around their homes during heavy rain, with the most common issue being large puddles forming on roads.

In response to these environmental changes, 64.4% of those surveyed expressed a desire for improved municipal drainage infrastructure, such as gutters and rainwater storage facilities.

Regarding individual financial risks, experts highlight the complexities of vehicle ownership during flood events. For those using residual value credit (zankure), a total loss due to submersion requires the immediate full repayment of the remaining loan balance. While comprehensive vehicle insurance can cover these costs, those with limited coverage or no insurance face significant financial burdens. Additionally, even if a vehicle is repairable, owners may face settlement costs at the end of a credit term if the repair affects the vehicle's appraised residual value.