13 Oct 2019 | 12:49 AM UTC
Japan: Typhoon Hagibis causes widespread disruptions October 13 /update 8
Transportation and power disruptions continue in Tokyo and the surrounding regions following the passage of Typhoon Hagibis on October 13
Event
Recovery and rescue efforts are ongoing across central and northern Japan on the morning (local time) of Sunday, October 13, following the passage of Typhoon Hagibis. Over 800 domestic flights have been canceled on Sunday at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND) and Narita International Airport (NRT). Limited bullet train service has resumed in Tokyo, but further rail service is not expected to resume until at least 12:00. Hundreds of thousands of homes are also without power in Tokyo, and outages are also being reported in the prefectures of Chiba, Kanagawa, Ibaraki, Shizuka, Tochigi, Yamanashi, Gunma, and Saitama. Residual transportation and power disruptions are anticipated over the coming hours.
Widespread damage to homes and infrastructure due to flooding, landslides, and mudslides have been reported throughout the region. At least four fatalities have been confirmed and 17 people remain missing as of Sunday morning. Over 100 people have also reportedly been injured by the storm. Evacuation orders remain in place for over 3 million people due to the risk of flooding and landslides. While most heavy rain warnings have been lifted by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), further flooding is possible as dams release water throughout the day.
As of 08:00 on Sunday, Typhoon Hagibis is located at 39.9°N 144.5°E (map here) and is tracking northeast at 65 kph (40 mph). The storm has moved into the ocean and may continue to affect northern parts of Japan as it moves northeast.
Transportation, business, and power disruptions are anticipated across central and northern Japan into Monday, October 14. Residual flight delays and an increased demand for flights in Tokyo are likely over the coming days. Further flooding, landslides, and mudslides are also possible.
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.
Travelers flying via HND or NRT are advised to confirm flight reservations and to contact their airline for additional information.
