Weather officials say extremely heavy rain is forecast for some Pacific coastal areas in western and eastern Japan through Friday.

Some of the areas were already drenched in record rainfall last week, and even small amounts of additional rain could heighten the risk of landslides.

The Japan Meteorological Agency says a seasonal rain front is moving north toward Japan, and brought rain to wide areas from the western region of Kyushu to the Kanto-Koshin region in the east on Thursday afternoon.

Locally developed rain clouds brought heavy rain across Kyushu on Thursday, including 74 millimeters from noon to 1 p.m. in Makurazaki City, Kagoshima Prefecture.
Downpours accompanied by localized thunder are forecast for Pacific coastal areas of western Japan through Friday morning, and eastern Japan through Friday afternoon.

During the 24 hours through late Friday afternoon, up to 200 millimeters of rain are forecast for southern Kyushu and Kansai; 180 millimeters for Shikoku and Tokai; and 150 millimeters for Kanto-Koshin.

Some of the areas were hit by record rainfall last weekend, and could be vulnerable if more rain falls, even in relatively small amounts.

The Meteorological Agency is advising people to stay on alert for the possible landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and rising rivers. Heavy rain is likely to start at night. People are advised to check the latest evacuation information from their local governments.

Central Japan Railway says Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train services connecting Tokyo and Osaka may be cancelled or delayed on Friday morning. The company is asking people to reconsider their travel plans.