Japan has been hit by the strongest typhoon of the year, with Typhoon Shanshan making landfall in the country’s south-west. The storm brought torrential rain and winds of up to 157 mph, causing power outages and destruction of homes. The meteorological agency predicted heavy rainfall in southern Kyushu, prompting rare special typhoon warnings. The slow-moving storm led to landslides and evacuations, with reported deaths and injuries in some areas. Automotive manufacturers suspended production and airlines cancelled flights in anticipation of the storm. The warnings indicate a high risk of a major disaster caused by the typhoon. Japan has issued special typhoon warnings only a few times in the past, with the most recent one occurring in 2022. Climate breakdown has been linked to the increasing intensity and destructive potential of tropical cyclones, with warmer oceans providing more energy for stronger storms. The impact of typhoons, including extreme rainfall and coastal storm surges, has been exacerbated by climate crisis-induced sea level rise. Typhoon Shanshan and other recent storms in Japan highlight the need for continued vigilance and preparation in the face of increasingly severe weather events.
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Typhoon Shanshan Hits Japan: Officials Prepare for Severe Impact
