Record Low Rainfall, A Former Village from a Drying Dam - The Current Situation of Winter Water Shortages
Japan is experiencing record low rainfall, leading to significant water shortages and the emergence of submerged structures due to dropping water levels in dams.
Japan is currently facing an unprecedented water shortage as the country experiences record low rainfall, resulting in reduced water levels in multiple dams. Notably, the Miyagase Dam, one of the largest in the Greater Tokyo Area, reported a water storage rate of only 37% as of the 15th, marking the lowest level on record. Consequently, historical remnants such as roads, bridges, and buildings that were submerged due to dam construction are now becoming visible as the lakes dry up.
As people walk along the roads bordering the dry lake, they can see the shrinking lake ahead and the barren ground that was once under water. Aerial drone footage confirms this grim reality, showing previously submerged structures like bridges and guardrails, along with clear signs indicating speed limits, pointing to a lost village that existed before the dam was built. This not only highlights the environmental impact of the current drought but also the historical significance of the landscape now exposed.
In addition to the Miyagase Dam, other regions like Osaka and Aichi are experiencing similar phenomena, where the emergence of submerged relics is raising concerns about water availability and management as winter progresses. The situation emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable water management practices in Japan, as prolonged droughts could have serious implications for local communities and agriculture, necessitating a reevaluation of water conservation efforts across the country.