Severe Tropical Storm Jangmi swept across Japan on Wednesday, bringing powerful winds, torrential rain and widespread disruption as authorities warned of potentially life-threatening conditions in several regions.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the storm was moving northeast off the country’s main island of Honshu towards the greater Tokyo area, packing sustained winds of up to 25 metres per second.
Forecasters warned that parts of Japan’s Pacific coastline face an increasing risk of serious flooding, landslides and other dangerous weather-related disasters as the storm continues its path across the country.
The storm, which recorded a central pressure of 980 hectopascals, has already caused extensive damage and disruption.
Government spokesperson Minoru Kihara said nearly 60,000 households had lost electricity as a result of the severe weather.
“If you sense any danger, please do not hesitate to take early action to protect your lives,” Kihara urged during a government briefing.
Authorities have issued evacuation advisories affecting hundreds of thousands of residents across eight prefectures in southwestern, central and eastern Japan as a precautionary measure.
The storm has also thrown travel plans into chaos. Major carriers including Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways cancelled nearly 900 domestic and international flights on Wednesday morning.
Rail services were also affected, with delays reported on several high-speed bullet train routes in Kyushu and western Japan.
Meanwhile, East Japan Railway suspended some services in the Tokyo metropolitan area and warned that additional disruptions could occur throughout the day as weather conditions deteriorate.
Japan’s manufacturing sector has also taken precautionary measures. Automotive giant Toyota Motor Corporation announced the temporary suspension of operations at 13 domestic production plants on Wednesday morning due to safety concerns.
Fellow automaker Suzuki Motor Corporation also halted operations at all five of its factories in Shizuoka Prefecture, west of Tokyo, as the storm approached.
Images emerging from affected areas showed fallen trees, flooded streets and strong winds lashing urban centres as emergency services remained on high alert.
Authorities continue to monitor the storm’s progress closely and are urging residents to follow official advisories, avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for further disruptions as Jangmi moves across the country.
