Key Highlights

  • Record rainfall of more than 360 millimeters fell in 24 hours in Japan's Chiba region, exceeding the previous record of 309 millimeters set in October 2013.
  • At least eight people were killed in flash floods, including one person trapped in a submerged vehicle.
  • Roughly 7,000 travelers were stranded at Narita airport, with many sleeping there overnight amid widespread transport disruptions.
  • More than 20,000 homes lost power after floodwaters damaged a substation, while gas Supply was temporarily cut to nearly 13,000 households.

Historic Rainfall Disrupts Transport During Peak Holiday Week

Record rainfall stranded thousands of travelers at Tokyo's Narita airport on Friday, bringing widespread flooding to Japan's Chiba region that disrupted transport, cut power to thousands of homes, and killed at least eight people. More than 360 millimeters of rain fell within 24 hours in parts of Chiba, exceeding the previous record of 309 millimeters set in October 2013, inundating roads and railways during one of Japan's busiest holiday weeks. Soldiers were deployed to assist with rescue efforts as floodwaters overwhelmed local infrastructure.

Thousands Stranded as Rescue Efforts Continue

Roughly 7,000 travelers were stranded at Narita airport, with many sleeping overnight after transport disruptions left them unable to reach their destinations. Airport staff distributed sleeping bags, water, and snacks to stranded passengers as taxi wait times reportedly stretched to several hours. Chiba's governor described the flooding as an extremely unusual event, saying he had never previously experienced a disaster of this scale. At least eight people were killed in the flooding, including one person trapped in a submerged vehicle, according to public broadcaster reports citing local authorities.

Power and Transport Networks Remain Under Strain

More than 20,000 homes lost power in the early hours of Friday after floodwaters damaged a local substation, while gas supply was temporarily cut to nearly 13,000 households. Several major highways in Chiba were closed, forcing drivers onto alternative routes that caused significant traffic congestion, while multiple rail services were suspended, though some connections between Narita and Tokyo had resumed by Friday, helping ease congestion at the airport. An airport spokesperson said most flights were expected to operate normally as recovery efforts continued.