TOKYO: Southern Japan is currently facing the brunt of heavy rainfall triggered by Typhoon Khanun, amplifying concerns as yet another storm looms on the eastern horizon, potentially posing a threat to Tokyo.
This weather turmoil comes at a time when thousands of individuals are gearing up for travel during the peak of the summer holiday season.
The trajectory of Typhoon Khanun points towards a potential landfall on the southwestern main island of Kyushu, situated approximately 858 km (533 miles) away from Tokyo, with the projected arrival date set for Thursday. However, several areas in this region have already been inundated with a month’s worth of rainfall within the past week alone, as reported by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).
As of now, the tempestuous typhoon is positioned in the waters south of Kyushu, following a path of destruction through the southwestern Okinawa region. The storm’s persistence and strength are evident, as it maintains a gradual pace of movement at around 10 kph (6 mph). This deliberate speed implies that the onslaught of wind and rain will extend over a prolonged period, exacerbating the challenges faced by the affected areas.
With great concern, the JMA has issued severe warnings of heavy rainfall and high winds for multiple regions across southern and western Japan. In response to these hazardous conditions, West Japan Railway Co, the operator of the renowned Shinkansen bullet train service, has taken the precautionary measure of suspending some of its train operations in Kyushu.
Adding to the growing apprehension is the emergence of a second storm named Lan, originating in the Pacific Ocean south of Japan. Meteorological projections indicate that Lan is poised to intensify as it progresses northward, raising the prospect of its influence being felt in Tokyo during the early days of the upcoming week, as noted by the JMA.
This dual onslaught of climatic disturbances coincides with the commencement of Obon, a prominent summer holiday season in Japan. During this time, a significant number of Japanese individuals traditionally depart from major urban centres to reconnect with their ancestral hometowns, seeking respite from the daily grind. The convergence of these meteorological challenges with this cherished cultural tradition adds a layer of complexity and concern to an already delicate situation.
