Tropical Storm Shanshan Lingers Over Japan, Causing Widespread Damage

Tropical Storm Shanshan has been causing significant disruption across Japan since making landfall on Thursday, August 29, 2024. The storm, characterized by winds of 65 kph (40 mph), has brought torrential rainfall to extensive areas of the country, including regions not directly in its path.

As of Sunday, September 1, 2024, Shanshan was centered over the Shizuoka area, located 180 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. The Japan Meteorological Agency, established in 1875, reported that the storm's movement had slowed considerably, intensifying its impact on affected regions.

The storm's effects have been far-reaching. Shanshan has been linked to at least six fatalities, including three individuals trapped in a mudslide. Additionally, one person remains missing, and 127 have sustained injuries. The storm's slow progression has exacerbated flooding and landslide risks, prompting authorities to issue evacuation advisories in vulnerable areas.

"Shanshan was traveling extremely slowly and barely moving at all as of Sunday morning."

The impact of Shanshan has been felt across Japan's main islands. Starting from the southwestern islands of Kyushu and Shikoku, the storm traversed onto Honshu, Japan's largest and most populous island. Even Hokkaido, the northernmost main island, experienced rainfall despite its distance from the storm's direct path.

In response to the heightened risk of landslides, warnings were issued for parts of Hamamatsu and Izu in Shizuoka Prefecture, Yokohama in Kanagawa Prefecture, and select areas in Tokyo. Residents in these high-risk zones were advised to relocate to local stadiums and community centers as a precautionary measure.

The storm's lingering presence has caused significant property damage. Reports indicate lopsided homes with caved-in roofs, flooded rivers, and streets inundated with brown water. In southwestern Japan, residents have begun the arduous task of cleaning mud-filled homes and discarding damaged appliances.

Looking ahead, meteorologists predict that Shanshan will gradually move northward on Monday, September 2, 2024, before heading out over the Sea of Japan. However, the storm's exact trajectory remains uncertain, and authorities continue to urge vigilance.

This event underscores Japan's vulnerability to tropical storms, with the country experiencing an average of three landfalling typhoons annually. The archipelago's mountainous terrain, spanning 6,852 islands, makes it particularly susceptible to landslides during heavy rainfall events.

As Shanshan continues to impact Japan, residents and authorities remain on high alert, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and evacuation orders to mitigate potential risks associated with this slow-moving tropical storm.