Record rains in Japan's Aichi force evacuation of 2 million

September 9, 2026 at 04:52 PM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Record rainfall hit Japan's Aichi Prefecture, with Nagoya recording 104.5 mm in one hour on September 8. Authorities ordered the evacuation of about 2 million residents as flooding disrupted transport and closed roads. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a top-level flood warning for the Shonai River.

Key Facts

Nagoya recorded 104.5 mm of rain in one hour on September 8, breaking the previous record of 97 mm set on September 11, 2000.
Authorities ordered the evacuation of about 2 million residents in Aichi Prefecture.
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a level 5 flood warning for the Shonai River.
Two of 15 underground passages managed by the prefecture were flooded, according to the Chubu Regional Development Bureau.
Up to 200 mm of rain may fall in some areas in the 24 hours to 6 p.m. on September 9, with a further 80 mm by the evening of September 10.

Record Rainfall

Nagoya recorded 104.5 mm of rain in one hour on September 8 between 3:53 p.m. and 4:53 p.m. local time. The previous record of 97 mm per hour was set on September 11, 2000 in the Tokai region. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a level 5 flood warning for the Shonai River. Meteorologists warn that heavy rain will continue, with up to 200 mm expected in some areas by 6 p.m. on September 9.

Evacuation and Transport Disruption

Authorities ordered the evacuation of about 2 million residents in Aichi Prefecture. Roads in the central Sakae district of Nagoya were flooded, with water reaching knee height in places. Train, bus, and other public transport services were suspended, including the Nagoya Municipal Subway. Temporary shelters were set up near Nagoya Station and other areas for people unable to return home due to transport restrictions. Two of 15 underground passages managed by the prefecture were flooded, according to the Chubu Regional Development Bureau.

Ongoing Threat

No casualties have been reported so far. Meteorologists warn that up to 200 mm of rain may fall in some areas in the 24 hours to 6 p.m. on September 9. A further 80 mm could fall by the evening of September 10.