Jul 07 (NHK) - A seasonal rain front is bringing heavy downpours to Tottori Prefecture, western Japan. Officials are calling on residents in hard-hit areas to evacuate as more rainfall is expected through Thursday.
Japan's Meteorological Agency warned of torrential rains on Wednesday morning after detecting a band of active rain clouds over the prefectures of Shimane and Tottori.
Heavy rains have been falling on and off in the region. Rain clouds are also extending to the east, bringing downpours to Hyogo Prefecture and elsewhere.
Parts of Tottori Prefecture have gotten more than their average monthly rainfall for July in just half a day. During the 12-hour period through 5 p.m., more than 300 millimeters of rain were observed in Kurayoshi City.
The Shimizu River in Tottori City overflowed, prompting authorities to urge residents in the area to evacuate.
Landslide warnings are in place for parts of Shimane, Tottori, Hyogo and Okayama prefectures.
More rains are expected through Thursday, mainly in coastal areas facing the Sea of Japan.
The Meteorological Agency is warning of landslides, flooding in low-lying areas and swollen rivers, as well as thunder strikes and strong gusts of wind.
