Japan: At least 58 people killed by Typhoon Hagibis October 15 /update 11

Event

Japanese government officials have confirmed at least 58 fatalities as of the morning (local time) of Tuesday, October 15, following the passage of Typhoon Hagibis as rescue and recovery efforts continue across central and northern Japan. Over 204 people were also injured by the storm and another 15 are still missing. The government has deployed over 110,000 personnel to assist in recovery operations, including the prefectures of Miyagi, Fukushima, Saitama, Ibaraki, Tochigi, and Nagano. The death toll may rise in the coming days as further information is gathered.

Widespread flooding remains a risk as Hagibis caused levees to collapse at 52 locations in seven prefectures. Roads remain flooded in some areas and some bridges have also collapsed. While rail service has resumed, residual delays are expected along the Hokuriku Shinkansen line. According to the East Japan Railway Company, one-third of its bullet trains used for the Hokuriku line have been damaged by the flooding and it is unclear how long it will take before full service resumes. Flights have also resumed in Tokyo, but airlines have warned of significantly higher demand for reservation assistance as passengers attempt to rebook canceled flights or request refunds. Further flight and rail disruptions, including delays and cancelations, are anticipated over the coming days. 

Power outages continued on Tuesday morning, with over 21,200 homes without electricity as of 09:00. Over 138,000 homes in 13 prefectures are also without water. The Tokyo Electric Power Company has said that it expects at least 90 percent of the electricity supply to be restored by Wednesday, October 16. Media sources are also reporting mobile phone service disruptions in some areas. 

Residual transportation, power, and commercial disruptions are anticipated over the coming days. A significant risk of flooding, landslides, and mudslides remains in the affected areas. Disruptions to recovery efforts are possible on Tuesday and into Wednesday as additional rain is forecast to hit central parts of Japan.

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, avoid contact with downed power lines, 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.