Multiple missing, over 3 million advised to evacuate after extreme rainfall hits Kyushu, Japan

A stationary low-pressure front over Kyushu produced record-breaking rainfall in southern Japan between August 10 and 11, 2025, with the heaviest impacts in Kumamoto Prefecture.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported more than 370 mm (14.6 inches) of rain in Tamana City in just six hours, a local record and nearly double the average August total. Some areas in Kumamoto received over 400 mm (15.7 inches) in 24 hours.

The deluge caused rivers to overflow, inundating roads and residential areas, while landslides destroyed homes and blocked access routes.

In Kami-Amakusa, residents and campers were stranded by rising waters. Mudslides buried a house in Yamato Town, leaving one person missing and two others rescued. Several people were swept away in swollen rivers in Kumamoto and neighboring Fukuoka Prefecture.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA) said more than 3 million people across Kyushu were under evacuation advisories, including about 384 000 in Kumamoto under the highest warning level.

The Ministry of Defense deployed Self-Defense Forces to assist in rescue and supply delivery, including fresh water to isolated communities.

Kyushu Shinkansen bullet train services and multiple local train lines were suspended, with some partial resumptions later in the day.

Around 6 000 households lost power at the height of the event, though roughly half had service restored by the evening of August 11.

As of August 11, there were no confirmed fatalities, but multiple people remained missing. This included one resident of Yamato Town, at least two individuals swept into rivers in Fukuoka Prefecture, and a father missing in Kōsa Town whose wife and two children were safe. Several injuries have been reported, though official counts vary between agencies.

The JMA warned that heavy rain is expected to continue through August 12, increasing the risk of further flooding and landslides. Residents have been urged to maintain maximum caution and prioritize life safety.

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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