Kumamoto Heavy Rain Triggers Special Alarm; TSMC Confirms No Impact on JASM | Sanqiu | Central News Agency CNA

TSMC Japan Facility Monitoring Heavy Rainfall in Kumamoto Prefecture

Kumamoto, Japan – Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) confirmed today that operations at its Japan Advanced Semiconductor manufacturing (JASM) facility in Kumamoto Prefecture are currently unaffected by severe rainfall prompting special warnings across multiple cities and towns. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued these warnings early this morning for Tamana City, Nagasu Town, Yayo City, uchi city, Kamikaku City, and Glacier Town, adding too a previous warning for Amasashi City – bringing the total to seven areas under alert.

Local authorities are urging residents to seek safe shelter as the heavy rain continues.

TSMC stated it is indeed closely monitoring the rainfall situation and implementing corresponding disaster prevention measures to ensure the safety of personnel, protect the environment, and minimize potential risks.

The JASM facility, which began mass production at the end of 2024, represents a significant investment in global semiconductor capacity.Construction of a second specialized process fab is planned to commence later this year, contingent upon the advancement of local infrastructure. Production timelines for the second fab will be resolute by customer demand and prevailing market conditions.

Evergreen Insights: Semiconductor Supply Chain Resilience & Regional Diversification

This event underscores the increasing importance of geographic diversification within the semiconductor supply chain. Historically concentrated in East Asia, particularly Taiwan, the industry is actively expanding production capabilities to regions like Japan, the United States, and Europe.This strategic shift aims to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, and logistical disruptions.

TSMC’s investment in Japan is a key component of this trend, bolstering the country’s role in advanced semiconductor manufacturing and contributing to a more resilient global supply chain.The Kumamoto facility is not only crucial for meeting growing demand but also for fostering technological expertise and collaboration within the Japanese semiconductor ecosystem.

Monitoring the impact of extreme weather events on these geographically diverse facilities will be critical for assessing the long-term viability of this diversification strategy and for refining disaster preparedness protocols across the industry. the ongoing situation in Kumamoto serves as a real-world test case for these efforts.

What specific rainfall totals in the Mount Aso area triggered the “Special Whether Alert”?

Kumamoto Heavy Rain Triggers Special Alarm; TSMC Confirms No Impact on JASM

Special Weather Alert & Rainfall Totals

Kumamoto Prefecture, located on the island of Kyushu in Japan, is currently under a “Special Weather Alert” due to unprecedented heavy rainfall. This alert, issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), signifies an exceptionally high risk of catastrophic damage from landslides and flooding. As of August 11,2025,significant rainfall totals have been recorded across the region:

Mount Aso area: Exceeding 400mm (15.7 inches) in the past 24 hours.

Kumamoto City: Over 300mm (11.8 inches) reported, with continued rainfall.

Ashikaga River Basin: Facing the highest risk of overflow and potential breaches.

These figures represent some of the highest rainfall amounts seen in the region in decades, prompting widespread evacuation orders and warnings for residents. The JMA is urging extreme caution and adherence to local authorities’ instructions. The heavy rain is attributed to a stationary frontal system interacting with humid air flowing from the East China Sea.

Evacuation Orders and Disaster Response

Local authorities in Kumamoto have issued evacuation orders for over 200,000 residents in vulnerable areas.Evacuation centers have been established in schools and public facilities to provide shelter and support.

Mandatory Evacuation Orders: Issued for areas along rivers and slopes prone to landslides.

Voluntary Evacuation Advisories: Recommended for residents in low-lying areas and those concerned about potential flooding.

Self-Defence Forces deployment: The Japanese Self-Defense Forces have been mobilized to assist with rescue efforts and provide logistical support.

Road Closures: Numerous roads and highways have been closed due to flooding and landslides, disrupting transportation networks.

The focus of the disaster response is currently on ensuring the safety of residents, rescuing those stranded by floodwaters, and preventing further damage.

Impact on JASM & TSMC’s Kumamoto Fab

A critical concern amidst the heavy rain has been the potential impact on JASM (Japan advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing), the joint venture between TSMC, Sony, and Denso. TSMC has officially confirmed that, as of August 11, 2025, there has been no impact on operations at the Kumamoto fab.

Fab Location: The JASM fab is strategically located in an area considered less vulnerable to the most severe flooding risks.

Preventative Measures: TSMC and JASM implemented preventative measures, including reinforcing drainage systems and securing critical equipment, in anticipation of the heavy rainfall.

Power Supply: The power supply to the fab remains stable, and backup generators are on standby.

Water Management: Robust water management systems are in place to prevent water intrusion into the facility.

This confirmation is crucial for the global semiconductor supply chain,as the Kumamoto fab is a key component in TSMC’s expansion plans and a vital source of advanced chips. The fab is focused on producing 12nm,28nm,and 55nm chips.

Kumamoto Prefecture: A Regional Overview

Kumamoto, the capital of Kumamoto Prefecture, is a significant economic and cultural center in Kyushu. The region is known for:

Agriculture: Rice cultivation, fruit production (particularly watermelons), and livestock farming are critically important industries.

Tourism: Kumamoto Castle, Mount Aso (an active volcano), and the scenic landscapes attract a large number of tourists annually.(Referencing [1] for regional context).

Manufacturing: The presence of JASM and othre manufacturing facilities contributes to the region’s economic growth.

Historical Significance: Kumamoto played a crucial role in Japanese feudal history, as highlighted by its well-preserved castle.

preparing for Future Heavy Rain Events: Practical Tips

Japan is prone to heavy rainfall and natural disasters. here are some practical tips for residents and visitors:

1. Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and heed warnings from local authorities. Utilize the JMA website and local news channels.
2. Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies, including food, water, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, and a radio.
3. Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and designated evacuation centers in your area.
4. Flood Insurance: Consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your property.
5. Landslide Awareness: Be aware of the risk of landslides, especially in mountainous areas.

Resources

Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA): https://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html

Kumamoto Prefecture Website: (Official website link to be added when available)

TSMC: [https://www.tsmc.com/](