Typhoon hits northern Japan, paralyzing airplane and train traffic
Typhoon Maria in Japan (Getty Images)
A large tropical typhoon Maria has significantly disrupted transportation in the Iwate Prefecture and other areas in northeastern Japan. 86 flights were canceled today, most of which typically connect the Tohoku region with Tokyo and Osaka, citing NHK.
Japan Airlines canceled 78 flights, while Nippon Airways canceled an additional 8. The number of canceled flights is expected to increase.
Rail transport in the prefecture has also faced significant disruptions. Although the national high-speed rail lines Tohoku Shinkansen, Yamagata Shinkansen, and Akita Shinkansen are still operating, JR East warns of possible delays and cancellations. Local rail lines have already partially halted operations today.
Japanese highway operators are also warning of possible closures on some sections of expressways due to heavy rain and the risk of flooding.
Meteorologists predict that the typhoon will bring a record amount of rainfall, potentially leading to landslides, flooding, and other natural disasters. They recommend that residents and tourists planning trips to or from the region closely monitor updates on the situation.
Typhoons are a common issue in Japan. Experts say the risk of such meteorological events is usually highest in summer and early autumn.
One of the most devastating typhoons in Japan occurred in 2019. Typhoon Hagibis damaged infrastructure and residential buildings, causing catastrophic destruction across much of eastern Japan.
Recently, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida canceled his trip to Asian countries due to the threat of an earthquake in Japan.
