Western Japan Enters Rainy Season, Arriving Right on Schedule

On June 4, 2026, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and regional meteorological observatories announced that the northern Kyushu region (including Yamaguchi Prefecture), the Chugoku region, and the Kinki region have likely entered the rainy season (known as tsuyu in Japanese). Following previous announcements for Okinawa, Amami, and southern Kyushu, the entirety of Western Japan has now entered the annual wet season.

While this year's rainy season arrived right around the average historical date, it represents a delay of over two weeks (18 to 19 days) compared to last year's record-early start. The seasonal shift quickly became a hot topic on social media, with many users commenting on the sudden onset of humid weather and expressing concern over wet daily commutes.

The arrival comes immediately after the passage of Typhoon No. 6. A seasonal rain front is currently moving northward from the west, destabilizing atmospheric conditions across Western Japan. The JMA has warned of localized heavy downpours and thunderstorms, particularly in Kyushu through June 5, advising residents to stay alert for landslides, lightning, and sudden gusts. Because the rainy season frequently causes water-related disasters, authorities strongly recommend checking local hazard maps and reviewing evacuation routes in advance.

The Context: Japan's Rainy Season (Tsuyu)

The rainy season in Japan, called tsuyu (梅雨, literally "plum rain" because it coincides with the ripening of plums), is a major seasonal event caused by a persistent weather front called the baiu-zensen. It typically begins in May in the southern islands of Okinawa and moves gradually northward, reaching the main islands of Honshu and Kyushu by early to mid-June, before dissipating in July. While the daily drizzle and high humidity can be challenging for residents and travelers alike, tsuyu is historically vital for Japan's agriculture, providing the necessary rainfall for rice cultivation. However, the heavy rains can sometimes trigger dangerous landslides and flooding, leading to frequent safety warnings during this period.

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