It’s time to bust out the old umbrella – Kyushu’s rainy season (“tsuyu” in Japanese) officially started today, May 28, and it’s forecast to be a strong one! Conditions for most of the season are expected to be similar to, or even stronger than those experienced last year, with lots of “guerilla gouu” (torrential/heavy rain). According to the Fukuoka District Meteorological Observatory, an anticyclone is developing on the ocean off the southern coast of Kyushu, bringing humidity to the air. Authorities will be on high alert for natural disasters, as the Meteorological Observatory has predicted the rain to be stronger than ever experienced in Kyushu.
One step to safety during these heavy rains is to know the signs, and react accordingly. The signs of “gerira gouu” include the clouds turning black, and a darkening sky. Next you will start to hear thunder, or see lightning, followed by large drops of rain. When you notice these signs, make sure to quickly vacate the shoreline and cliff areas, and go indoors, or inside your car to avoid being struck by lightning. Also beware of rainwater flowing into underground shopping areas, causing potential flooding. Keep safe everybody! Rainy season is expected to finish by mid~late July this year. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun May 28