Terrifying Typhoon Hits Japan: 'San-san' Causes Casualties and Massive Damage

Typhoon San-san, classified as one of the most powerful storms in history, has struck Japan's central and southern regions with devastating force.

Typhoon San-san, classified as one of the most powerful storms in history, has struck Japan's central and southern regions with devastating force. The typhoon has led to multiple casualties, extensive damage, and significant disruptions. This blog post provides an update on the impact of the typhoon and the ongoing efforts to manage the disaster.

On August 29, Typhoon San-san battered Japan's central and southern regions, resulting in severe damage and casualties. The storm, described as "historically powerful," has wreaked havoc across several areas, with reports of fatalities and injuries mounting.

In Aichi Prefecture, three individuals lost their lives due to a landslide caused by the typhoon. Rescue teams managed to save a family of five buried under debris, but unfortunately, two elderly people and a man in his thirties died. Two survivors, both women in their forties, were taken to the hospital with varying degrees of injuries.

In Miyazaki City, Kyushu, four people were injured when tiles blown by strong winds struck them. In Kagoshima, where a special warning for storms and high waves was issued, eleven people were injured from incidents such as falling roof tiles and overturned motorcycles.

A 73-year-old construction worker reported witnessing a massive whirlpool several meters high and described it as an unprecedentedly terrifying experience. He noted that a small car was overturned and construction site debris shattered the vehicle's windows.

In Oita Prefecture, Saiki City issued evacuation orders to its entire population of approximately 66,000 people at 5:15 a.m. on the 29th, with the second-highest alert level, 'Level 4,' being declared.

Tension remains high in disaster-stricken areas. In Ishikawa Prefecture on the Noto Peninsula, which had previously experienced a major earthquake this year, fishing boats are now preparing for the storm.

According to NHK, as of 7 a.m. on August 29, Typhoon San-san was advancing towards Kagoshima Prefecture with a central pressure of 935 hPa. The maximum wind speed near the center is 50 m/s, with gusts reaching 70 m/s. Areas within 110 km of the center are experiencing storm winds exceeding 25 m/s.

In the Kanto region, where Tokyo is located, heavy rain is expected to start around noon and intensify by evening. Authorities are urging vigilance against landslides due to heavy rainfall, with the highest temperatures reaching 31°C.

The Meteorological Agency warns that the slow-moving typhoon could result in further heavy rainfall and increased risk of landslides, particularly in areas previously affected by heavy rain. Flood and storm warnings may remain in effect until August 31, with anticipated rainfall over the next 24 hours expected to reach 600 mm in southern Kyushu, 400 mm in northern Kyushu and Shikoku, and 300 mm in Tokai, Kinki, and Kanto regions.

On the sea, rough waves and strong winds are forecasted, with wave heights reaching up to 9 meters in southern Kyushu, 8 meters in Atami, and 7 meters in northern Kyushu and Shikoku.

Typhoon experts caution that San-san may be among the strongest storms on record, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and preparedness. The Meteorological Agency advises moving to sturdy buildings before the storm intensifies and keeping away from windows indoors. It also urges residents to check emergency evacuation routes and prepare for possible power and water outages.

Typhoon San-san's impact on Japan has been severe, with casualties and extensive damage reported. The storm's strength and slow movement increase the risk of further complications. It is crucial for residents to remain vigilant, follow safety instructions, and prepare for ongoing adverse weather conditions.