Powerful Typhoon Shanshan Set to Batter Japan

AFP/APP

Tokyo: A strong typhoon, Shanshan, is heading toward southern Japan, with forecasters warning of heavy rains, powerful winds, and potential transportation disruptions later this week.

Typhoon Shanshan is expected to hit the Amami island area on Wednesday, bringing gusts of up to 216 kilometers (135 miles) per hour before moving toward the main southern island of Kyushu.

An official from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) warned in a press conference of “violent storms” and “high waves” from Tuesday through Friday.

In Miyazaki Prefecture, Kyushu, up to 400 millimeters (16 inches) of rain is expected within a 24-hour period starting at noon on Wednesday, according to JMA forecaster Shuichi Tachihara.

“High alert is necessary for potential rain-related disasters, including landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and river floods,” Tachihara emphasized.

Satoshi Omatsu, a land and transport ministry official, added that railways, flights, and highway traffic could be disrupted.

Earlier this month, Typhoon Ampil caused disruptions to hundreds of flights and trains, dumping heavy rain but resulting in only minor injuries and damage as it passed along the Pacific coast near Tokyo.

That system came just days after Tropical Storm Maria brought record rainfall to northern Japan.

According to a study released last month, typhoons in the region have been forming closer to coastlines, intensifying more rapidly, and lasting longer over land due to climate change.