Tropical Storm Peipah Approaches Japan, Raising Flood Risks

Tropical Storm Peipah formed on September 4, 2025, at approximately 3 a.m. local time, over waters east of Amami-Oshima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the storm is moving northward towards Kyushu, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region. Peipah is expected to travel along the Pacific coast of western and eastern Japan through Friday, with significant rainfall accumulation anticipated.

Japan TimesTropical storm approaching western Japan, bringing heavy rainTropical storm south of Japan bringing heavy rain along PacificTaipei TimesTropical storm may approach western and eastern Japan

The JMA has issued warnings for heavy rain, with forecasts indicating that southern Kyushu could receive up to 200 millimeters of rain, while Shikoku may see as much as 300 millimeters within 24 hours. Extreme localized downpours exceeding 50 millimeters per hour are also expected. Wind gusts could reach up to 90 kilometers per hour, raising concerns about mudslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and swollen rivers. The storm's central atmospheric pressure was recorded at 1,002 hectopascals, with sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour.

Tropical storm south of Japan bringing heavy rain along PacificTropical storm approaching western Japan, bringing heavy rainTropical storm may approach western and eastern JapanJapan TimesTaipei Times

The Central Weather Administration (CWA) of Taiwan has warned of potential disruptions to flights between Taiwan and Japan due to Tropical Storm Peipah. As of a 9:50 a.m. update, Japan Airlines reported that while no international flights were affected, some domestic routes to islands south of Kyushu might experience changes. Travelers are advised to monitor flight schedules closely.

Taipei TimesCentral News Agency (CNA) / Focus TaiwanJapan TimesTropical storm approaching western Japan, bringing heavy rainTropical storm south of Japan bringing heavy rain along Pacific

Despite the warnings issued by meteorological agencies, some local residents have expressed concerns regarding the preparedness for such storms. Critics argue that previous storms have highlighted gaps in infrastructure and emergency response systems, which could exacerbate the impact of Peipah.

Taipei Times

The Japan Meteorological Agency has urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and to prepare for possible evacuations. They emphasized the importance of staying updated with the latest weather information and taking precautions against severe weather conditions, including lightning and high waves.

Tropical storm may approach western and eastern Japan

• “As warm and damp air from the south is flowing in, atmospheric conditions have destabilized considerably, mainly along the Pacific side of western Japan, and rain clouds have developed above southern Kyushu.” — Japan Meteorological Agency

Tropical storm south of Japan bringing heavy rain along Pacific

• “The agency is urging people to be on the alert for landslides, flooding in low-lying areas and swollen rivers.” — Japan Meteorological Agency

Tropical storm approaching western Japan, bringing heavy rain

• “The CWA advised travelers to check for possible changes to flight schedules.” — Central Weather Administration

Central News Agency (CNA) / Focus Taiwan

As Tropical Storm Peipah continues its path towards Japan, meteorological agencies will closely monitor its development. Residents are advised to prepare for potential evacuations and to heed warnings from local authorities. The storm is expected to transition into an extratropical cyclone by Saturday morning, but heavy rain and wind conditions are likely to persist through the weekend.

Japan Times