Japan’s Nagoya city has been hit by record-breaking rainfall, just 10 days before the 2026 Asian Games are scheduled to begin. Nagoya recorded a staggering 104 millimeters of rain in just one hour, triggering Japan’s highest-level rain warning and causing severe flooding across several parts of the city.
Around 400 athletes and Games staff who had already arrived in Nagoya were briefly evacuated to higher ground as floodwaters rose. Fortunately, everyone was reported safe.
Several roads and homes were flooded, while bus and subway services were temporarily suspended. Around 3,500 people sought shelter at emergency evacuation centers, and nearly 200 vehicles were reportedly stranded in floodwaters.
Some roofs at Asian Games venues were also reported to have leaked, but officials said there was no major damage to the facilities.
Nagoya Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa said the city remains confident that the Asian Games will go ahead as scheduled from September 19 to October 4.
More than 11,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions are expected to compete, with India sending a 503-member contingent.
Despite the flooding, Japanese authorities say preparations remain on track for the continental sporting extravaganza.
