Japan: Tropical Storm Krosa moves into Sea of Japan August 16 /update 5

Event

Recovery efforts are ongoing in western and central parts of Japan on Friday, August 16, following the passage of Tropical Storm Krosa. The storm made landfall on Thursday, August 15, near Kure (Hiroshima prefecture), bringing damaging winds and heavy rains throughout the region. As of Friday morning (local time), heavy rain, flooding, and landslide warnings remain in effect for parts of Nara, Wakayama, Shiga, Fukui, Gifu, Ishikawa, Nagano, Shizuoka, Yamanashi, and Tochigi prefectures. At least one person has been killed and 49 others injured in weather-related incidents. According to local media reports, some areas received up to 80 cm (31 in) of total rainfall. Over 7000 residents were also evacuated from their homes.

Residual transportation disruptions are anticipated in the affected areas through Friday. Bullet train service is expected to resume normal operations, as well as local railway service. According to local media reports, over 800 flights were canceled on Thursday, and another 48 were suspended on Friday morning. An increased demand for flights and associated delays are likely in the coming days as travelers rebook for canceled flights.

As of 09:50, Krosa is located approximately 410 km (254 mi) west-northwest of the city of Sado (map here). The storm is expected to continue moving northeast through the Sea of Japan and may affect northern areas of Japan through Sunday, August 18.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.