Chiba, Japan Hit by Largest Rainfall in 50 Years: 4 Dead, 7,000 Spent the Night at Narita Airport

Due to the influence of a linear rain band, Chiba Prefecture in Japan experienced record-breaking rainfall, with 24-hour accumulated precipitation in central Chiba City reaching as high as 367mm, setting the highest record since statistics began in 1976—over the past 50 years.

According to comprehensive Japanese media reports, the heavy rains caused severe flooding disasters. Chiba Prefectural Government and other officials stated that a total of 4 people died in areas including Ichikawa City, and at one point, more than 400,000 people received evacuation instructions. The flooding disrupted railway and road transportation; about 7,000 people were stranded and spent the night at Narita Airport.

The Chiba Prefectural Government opened its offices to provide temporary shelter for people unable to return home, with more than 1,700 people seeking refuge.

The Self-Defense Forces deployed large vehicles starting on the morning of the 14th to transport around 4,000 people stranded at central city stations who were unable to return home.

Currently, the rainfall has slightly weakened, with the Meteorological Agency issuing the second-level heavy rain advisory for Chiba Prefecture. The Meteorological Agency warned that even if rainfall temporarily eases during the day, it is expected to intensify again starting from the evening. The southern Kanto and Tohoku regions need to be alert for possible heavy rainfall in short periods. People are advised to make plans in advance, such as choosing to go shopping during periods of lighter rain, and to avoid going out at night as much as possible.