Trains and flights have been halted across Japan as Typhoon Shanshan, one of the most powerful storms to hit the nation in decades, wreaks havoc in its wake. At least six fatalities have been reported, and over 100 individuals are injured after the typhoon made landfall in southwestern Japan.
Now downgraded to a tropical storm, Shanshan still carries winds of 90 km/h (56 mph). Thousands remain without power as the storm continues to impact regions across the country.
A level-five evacuation order was issued for millions in Kyushu as Shanshan approached with winds reaching up to 252 km/h. Although the storm has weakened, it is pummeling northeast, with forecasts predicting up to 300mm (12 inches) of rainfall in certain areas within the next 24 hours. Residents have been warned to prepare for landslides, flooding, and extensive damage.
The trail of destruction left behind includes severely damaged buildings, uprooted trees, and vehicles overturned or submerged in floodwaters. Heavy rains continue to fall in Gifu and Mie prefectures, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to caution residents about potential landslides and overflowing rivers.
A Tokyo resident expressed astonishment at the unprecedented impact of this storm, commenting, “I didn’t expect it to be like this. I’m very surprised.” In light of the storm, major airlines have canceled numerous domestic flights, and bullet train services linking Tokyo and Osaka faced disruptions over the weekend. Shinkansen services in Nagoya have also been suspended, with further cancellations possible.
Special typhoon warnings, like the one issued for Shanshan, are designated for exceptionally powerful storms. The last such warning was issued in September 2022 for Typhoon Nanmadol, marking a significant escalation in Japan’s storm response protocols. Recent studies indicate that climate change is causing typhoons in the region to become more intense and last longer over land, posing an increasing threat to communities along the coast.
