A powerful typhoon, now downgraded to a tropical storm, continues to cause disruptions in Japan. Flights and trains have been affected, and authorities are warning of potential landslides due to heavy rain. The typhoon, named Shanshan, made landfall on Kyushu island on Thursday as one of the strongest typhoons in decades. However, its speed has decreased from 252 kph to 90 kilometers per hour.
The impact of the typhoon has been significant, resulting in at least six deaths and over 120 injuries according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency. Currently classified as a tropical storm, Shanshan is currently located off Wakayama Prefecture and moving eastward.
As a result of the storm’s effects, ANA and Japan Airlines have canceled approximately 60 domestic flights for Saturday affecting nearly 7,200 passengers. Additionally, Shinkansen bullet trains traveling to and from Nagoya have been temporarily suspended.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued warnings for potential landslides, flooding, and overflowing rivers urging residents to remain vigilant. In Gifu Prefecture, a city issued an evacuation warning for its 2,000 residents living near an overflowing river. Some cities in northern Hokkaido also experienced heavy rainfall.
Furthermore, more than 32 thousand households in southern Kagoshima Prefecture still remain without power since Shanshan made landfall on Thursday.
Scientists emphasize that climate change is contributing to the increased risk of heavy rainfall not only in Japan but also globally due to warmer atmospheres holding more water.
Please note that this article does not contain any credit or copyright information.