Japan: Neoguri weakens to low pressure system October 22 /update 1

Event

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) downgraded Tropical Storm Neoguri to a low pressure system on the evening (local time) of Monday, October 22. As of the morning of Tuesday, October 22, the system is located over the sea south of Shikoku island. According to current forecasts, Neoguri is expected to bring rain up Japan’s eastern coast through Tuesday. While the storm has weakened, officials are still warnings that there is an increased risk of flooding in areas hit by Typhoon Hagibis. Thunderstorm and heavy rain advisories are in effect for some central prefectures.

Associated power outages and disruptions to transportation and business services are possible in areas forecast to be affected by the system over the coming hours and days.

Context

Rescue and recovery operations are still ongoing following the passage of Typhoon Hagibis as the death toll reaches 80 people as of October 21, with a further 11 individuals still missing. Over 45,000 homes were flooded by the storm and another 2400 were destroyed or partially damaged. Approximately 4600 people are still living in evacuation facilities or shelters. More than 80,000 homes remain without running water and it is unclear when utilities will be fully restored. Public transportation disruptions were widespread, with service on the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line between Tokyo and Kanazawa only due to resume on October 25. Hagibis collapsed levees at 125 locations on 68 rivers in seven prefectures, increasing the risk of additional flooding.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, 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.