Japan, South Korea: Recovery efforts ongoing as of Sept. 6 following passage of Typhoon Hinnamnor

Event

Recovery efforts are ongoing in western and northern Japan and South Korea as of Sept. 6 following passage of Typhoon Hinnamnor. The storm made landfall near Geoje City, South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea early Sept. 6, causing widespread flooding and landslides.

Although weather conditions have improved across much of the region, the Korea Meteorological Administration has warned of heavy rainfall of around 20 cm (8 inches) across the coastal areas of North and South Gyeongsang provinces and rainfall of around 15 cm (6 inches) across southeastern and eastern Gangwon Province Sept. 6. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued purple storm surge warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) for coastal areas of northern Hyogo Prefecture. Red high wave warnings are in place across the Oki Islands in Shimane Prefecture as well as northern Ishikawa and western Hokkaido prefectures, with yellow advisories in force in the remainder of western and northern Japan.

Authorities in Japan have confirmed one death in Shiroishi Town, Sage Prefecture. At least 11 others have been injured. Reports indicate that at least 144 structures have been damaged in Fukuoka, Ishikawa, Kagawa, Kumamoto, Mie, Nagasaki, Nara, Okinawa, Osaka, Saga, Shimane, Shizouka, Tottori, and Toyama prefectures in Japan, with the worst hit Shizouka and Osaka prefectures. Mobile communications have been disrupted across parts of western Japan. At least 124 flights at various airports in Kyushu were canceled Sept. 6. The Kyushu Shinkansen between Hakata and Kumamoto stations is canceled Sept. 6 and the number of trains between Kumamoto and Kagoshima Chuo stations have been reduced. Various other local train services have been suspended. Power outages were reported across around 35,600 households in Kyushu, including 28,470 households in Nagasaki Prefecture.

Authorities in South Korea have confirmed one fatality in Pohang City due to floodwaters. The death toll is likely to rise as at least nine others remain missing in Pohang and Ulsan cities. More than 60,000 households reported power outages. More than 250 flights across South Korea were canceled due to adverse weather conditions; flights gradually resumed Sept. 6. Around 2,900 people remain evacuated in the southern regions of the country.

Protracted transport and business disruptions are almost certain as emergency crews continue recovery efforts; utility disruptions will probably occur over the coming days and weeks. Shortages of fuel and other essential goods are likely. Driving conditions may be difficult on rural routes and regional highways.

Advice

Monitor local media for updates and advisories on weather conditions. Make allowances for possible supply chain disruptions in affected areas. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Use extreme caution in low-lying areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for flooding. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

Japan Meteorological Agency
Korea Meteorological Administration