A powerful typhoon, Shanshan, recently hit Japan, causing significant disruptions in the country. While it has now been downgraded to a tropical storm, it continues to affect flights and trains, with authorities warning of possible landslides due to heavy rain. The typhoon made landfall on Kyushu island on Thursday, reaching speeds of 252kmh, but has since slowed down to 90kmh. The impact of the storm resulted in at least six deaths and more than 120 injuries, as reported by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
Despite being downgraded, Shanshan remains a concern as it moves east off the western Wakayama region. Both ANA and Japan Airlines have cancelled approximately 60 domestic flights for Saturday, affecting nearly 7,200 passengers. Additionally, Shinkansen bullet trains in Nagoya have been suspended due to the storm. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued warnings for landslides, flooding, and overflowing rivers, urging residents to remain vigilant.
The effects of Shanshan are being felt across various regions in Japan, with a city in Gifu issuing a top evacuation warning to residents near an overflowing river. Heavy rain has been reported in northern Hokkaido, and more than 32,000 households in southern Kagoshima, where the typhoon first hit land, are still without power. These incidents highlight the ongoing impact and challenges faced by residents as a result of the storm.
Climate change is thought to be exacerbating the risk of heavy rain in Japan and other parts of the world, with warmer atmospheres holding more water. Previous severe weather events in Japan, such as the 2021 landslide in Atami that claimed 27 lives and the 2018 floods and landslides in western Japan that killed over 200 people during the rainy season, serve as stark reminders of the increasing threats posed by extreme weather events.
As Japan continues to grapple with the aftermath of Typhoon Shanshan, efforts are being made to assess the damage, restore services, and ensure public safety. The resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters remains a focal point, with a greater emphasis on preparedness, response, and recovery measures. The government, organizations, and individuals are working together to address the challenges posed by extreme weather events and to minimize their impact on lives and infrastructure.
