56,000 Japanese Evacuates As Typhoon Shanshan Draws Closer
Japan is on high alert as Typhoon Shanshan, the strongest storm of the year, barrels toward the southern island of Kyushu. Authorities have urged tens of thousands of residents to evacuate, with warnings of a “major disaster” looming over the region.
The typhoon, packing winds of up to 252 kilometers per hour (157 miles per hour), is expected to hit Kyushu with full force by Thursday, bringing violent winds, high waves, and a storm surge at levels many have never experienced before. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized the potential severity of the storm, warning of extreme conditions that could lead to widespread destruction.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued its highest “special warning” for parts of the Kagoshima region, predicting up to 1,100 millimeters (43 inches) of rainfall over the next two days. The threat has prompted 56,000 people to evacuate.
In preparation for the storm, major disruptions have already begun. Auto giant Toyota has halted production at all 14 of its factories, and airlines have canceled hundreds of flights, affecting thousands of travelers. Japan Airlines and ANA have nixed over 400 domestic and international flights, while Kyushu Railway is suspending some Shinkansen bullet train services.
Amid the chaos, a tragic landslide in central Aichi prefecture has left two people missing after burying a house with five family members inside. Rescuers are working tirelessly to locate the missing individuals.
As Japan braces for Typhoon Shanshan, experts warn that climate change is contributing to more frequent and severe typhoons in the region. Recent storms like Typhoon Ampil and Tropical Storm Maria have already caused significant disruptions, though their impact was relatively mild compared to what Shanshan might bring.
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