Record Rains in Japan Lead to Massive Underground Parking Lot Flooding
In the city of Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture, Japan, a record amount of precipitation fell — 123.5 mm per hour, which caused serious consequences. A two-story underground parking lot was completely flooded, resulting in 274 cars being damaged. Among the destroyed vehicles were a Nissan R35 GT-R and a modified Mercedes S-Class.
Forces of Nature Overcame Infrastructure Protection Measures
Despite the measures taken, such as installing sandbags at the entrances, water quickly penetrated inside the Kusunoki Parking lot. The first floor with a ceiling height of 3.5 meters was completely submerged, while on the second floor the water level reached 1.2 meters. No human injuries were reported.
Lengthy Rescue and Recovery Operations
Water pumping began on September 13 using pump trucks, but the parking lot remained flooded until the morning of September 17. Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism published photographs of the aftermath of the disaster, showing the scale of the destruction.
【Yokkaichi Underground Parking Lot】
This is another view during the investigation of the damage situation on the B2 floor. #KusunokiParking #YokkaichiHeavyRain
Diversity of Damaged Cars
Among the flooded cars were not only premium models such as Porsche Cayman, Mercedes G-Class, CLA Shooting Brake, A-Class, and BMW X6, but also popular Japanese models like Toyota Crown Sedan, Land Cruiser Prado, Prius, Alphard, HiAce, Probox, as well as compact Mitsubishi Delica Mini. The dirt on the bodies indicates that water entered the interiors and mechanical components.
Financial Consequences and Insurance Payouts
The financial losses will be significant. The parking lot operator has already begun identifying car owners for their subsequent removal. Since parking rules usually exclude liability for the consequences of natural disasters, compensation should be covered by insurance. In Japan, insurance policies typically include flood protection, but the scale of the event could significantly impact the claims process.
This event serves as a reminder of the importance of updating infrastructure and adapting to climate change, especially in regions prone to extreme weather events. Local authorities are likely to review flood protection plans to prevent similar incidents in the future. Insurance companies may also make adjustments to policy terms, taking into account the increasing risks.