Typhoon Shanshan, a powerful storm with gusts reaching up to 216 km per hour, is currently wreaking havoc in southern Japan, particularly impacting the Amami archipelago. The typhoon has triggered severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and strong winds, leading to major travel disruptions across the region.
Impact on Transportation
On Tuesday morning, the bullet train service between Hamamatsu and Toyohashi was temporarily suspended due to heavy rain. This service has since resumed, but other segments of the high-speed rail network and local train services are experiencing delays. Both Central Japan Railway and West Japan Railway have reported ongoing disruptions, and further cancellations or suspensions may occur depending on the storm’s progression.
Air Travel Disruptions
Air travel has also been significantly affected by Typhoon Shanshan. Japan Airlines announced the cancellation of 116 domestic flights on Tuesday and Wednesday, along with six international flights. All Nippon Airways (ANA) reported the cancellation of 68 domestic flights from Wednesday to Friday. The storm’s impact is particularly severe on flights to and from Kagoshima, the Amami Islands, and Osaka airport. Travelers are advised to check their flight status and make necessary adjustments to their plans.
Weather Warnings and Forecast
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued severe weather warnings for the affected regions. Forecasts predict up to 400 millimeters (15.7 inches) of rainfall on Amami Island within the next 24 hours and up to 500 millimeters (19.7 inches) in the Kyushu region from Wednesday to Thursday. Residents are urged to remain vigilant for strong winds, high waves, landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and potential river inundation.
Wind Speeds and Potential Damage
Winds associated with Typhoon Shanshan are expected to reach up to 90 mph in southern Kyushu and the Amami region starting Tuesday, with potential gusts increasing to 110 mph by Wednesday. Despite the severity of the storm, no significant damage has been reported so far. However, the ongoing weather conditions necessitate caution and preparedness.
Recent Weather Trends
Between May and July, the region experienced three tropical storms, two typhoons, and one major typhoon, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This compares to an average of around eight tropical storms, four typhoons, and two major typhoons during the same period from 1991 to 2020. The current weather pattern underscores the heightened activity in the region this year.
Travel Advice
Given the widespread disruptions caused by Typhoon Shanshan, travelers are strongly advised to check the status of their services, including flights and train operations, before setting out. It is essential to stay informed about potential delays and cancellations as the storm continues to impact the region.