On September 1st, heavy rain fell across Hokkaido, particularly in the northern part of the island, due to a low-pressure system accompanied by a front.
Caution is required until the 2nd for landslides and rising river levels.
In areas like Wakkanai in northern Hokkaido, heavy rain has been falling since the morning of the 1st.
Due to the passage of the low-pressure system with a front, atmospheric conditions across Hokkaido have become very unstable.
As a result, northern Hokkaido experienced locally intense, thunderstorm-accompanied downpours through the evening of the 1st. In places like Rebun and Rishiri Fuji Town Motodomari, six-hour precipitation reached record highs for September, making it a historic rainfall event.
Vigilance is required until the morning of the 2nd for landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and rising rivers.
Additionally, in southern Hokkaido, more than 100 mm of additional rain is possible by the evening of the 2nd, and caution is advised.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost and second-largest island, historically inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people. It was formally developed by the Japanese government during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century to strengthen national borders and encourage settlement. Today, it is renowned for its vast unspoiled nature, major cities like Sapporo, and popular ski resorts.
Wakkanai
Wakkanai is Japan’s northernmost city, located on the island of Hokkaido near the Russian island of Sakhalin. Historically, it developed as a major port for fishing and trade, and it was officially incorporated as a city in 1949. Today, it is known for its symbolic monuments, such as the Northern Breakwater Dome, and serves as a gateway for travel to the Rishiri and Rebun islands.
Rebun
Rebun is a remote island located off the northern coast of Hokkaido, Japan, known for its dramatic coastal scenery and over 300 species of alpine flowers. Historically, it was inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people and later became a site for Japanese fishing communities. Today, it is a popular destination for hiking and ecotourism within the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.
Rishiri Fuji Town Motodomari
Rishiri Fuji Town Motodomari is a settlement on the northwest coast of Rishiri Island, named for its view of the iconic, Fuji-like Mount Rishiri. Historically, it has been a center for the island’s fishing industry, particularly for its high-quality kombu (kelp). The town offers a traditional, quiet atmosphere and serves as a gateway for visitors exploring the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.
