Heavy rains in Nagoya, the host city of the Asian Games, forced athletes to evacuate their accommodations. Approximately ۱۰۴ millimeters of rain fell within an hour on Tuesday, prompting city officials to issue evacuation orders in some areas. Unfavorable weather conditions are expected to continue in the coming days.
Impact of Climate Change
Scientists warn that climate change caused by human activities is increasing the frequency and intensity of weather events in Japan and other parts of the world. This year, due to the lack of a dedicated athletes' village, organizers have resorted to using cruise ships, temporary wooden containers, and hotels.
An official from the Nagoya Port Authority stated that "hundreds" of athletes staying in the Garden Pier area were forced to evacuate due to the dangers posed by heavy rainfall. These athletes returned to their accommodations after about two hours following the cancellation of the evacuation order.
Challenges Ahead
The Asian Games will officially begin with the opening ceremony on September ۱۹, but several events, including basketball competitions, will start beforehand. Reports indicate that rain has also infiltrated several competition venues. City officials and game organizers have not been able to immediately assess the extent of the damage.
More than ۱۷,۰۰۰ athletes and officials will participate in these games, which is more than the Olympics. Following the heavy rains, metro and bus services in Nagoya were temporarily suspended, and the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a flood warning for one of the region's major rivers. Nagoya city officials stated on their website: "Due to sudden heavy rainfall, the risk of rain-related disasters has significantly increased."
