A powerful typhoon is expected to approach both western and eastern Japan later this week, potentially causing significant disruptions to shinkansen bullet train services. The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on Sunday that Typhoon Shanshan, currently situated south of the Japanese archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, is moving northwest at a speed of 30 kilometers per hour.
As the tenth typhoon of the season draws nearer, the agency has issued warnings for lightning, tornados, strong gusts, and hail in areas across western and eastern Japan. These weather conditions are also anticipated to affect the southwestern Nansei island chain as early as Sunday.
The operator of the Tokaido Shinkansen line, which connects Tokyo and Osaka, has stated that bullet train services may be suspended for two days starting from Wednesday. The extent of these suspensions will depend on the course and intensity of Typhoon Shanshan. Additionally, partial or complete cancellations are possible for operations on other shinkansen lines such as Joetsu, Hokuriku, Tohoku Yamagata Akita around Wednesday and Thursday. The Sanyo Shinkansen line could also experience disruptions lasting up to three days starting from Tuesday.
This announcement comes after Typhoon Ampil passed near eastern Japan on August 16th. On that day alone, services on the Tokaido shinkansen line between Tokyo and Nagoya were canceled entirely. Furthermore, approximately 650 international and domestic flights to and from Haneda airport in Tokyo were canceled along with flights at Narita airport located east of Tokyo.
As preparations are made for Typhoon Shanshan’s arrival later this week or beyond it remains crucial for residents in affected areas to stay informed about any potential changes or disruptions caused by this powerful storm system.
© KYODO