OITA, Japan: One of Japan’s strongest typhoons in decades, Typhoon Shanshan, has wreaked havoc across southern Japan, causing at least five deaths and injuring dozens.
Packing winds up to 252 kilometers per hour, Shanshan made landfall on Kyushu, Japan’s main southern island, early Thursday. It left a trail of destruction, toppling trees, damaging buildings, and causing landslides.
About 168,000 households in Kyushu were left without power, and more than 80 people were injured, primarily in Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures.
Severe flooding and landslides led to the evacuation of over five million people, with many taking shelter in community centers and schools.
Rail services, including the Shinkansen bullet trains, and hundreds of domestic flights were canceled due to heavy rainfall and strong winds.
The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that the storm could bring unprecedented rain, high waves, and further flooding as it moves northeast toward Honshu.
Typhoon Shanshan’s destruction highlights increasing climate volatility, with storms intensifying and lasting longer due to climate change. Japanese authorities have urged citizens to prioritize safety and evacuate whenever needed, as more heavy rain and strong winds are expected in the coming days.
