Typhoon Jangmi made a significant impact in Japan early on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, as it made landfall in Wakayama prefecture, unleashing torrential rain and triggering the highest-level flood warnings across several regions. The storm has resulted in widespread travel chaos, with thousands losing power and numerous flights cancelled, as authorities scramble to manage the risks of flooding and landslides.
Severe Weather Conditions and Immediate Threats
Upon its arrival, Typhoon Jangmi was packing winds of up to 126 km/h and was moving in an east-northeast direction. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned that the storm will continue to track along the Pacific coast, affecting various areas over the following days. Substantial rainfall is anticipated, particularly in central and eastern Japan, raising fears of severe flooding.
Residents in vulnerable areas, especially those near rivers or in low-lying regions, have been advised to seek higher ground immediately. In the capital, Tokyo, authorities warned locals living near the Zenpukuji River to evacuate as water levels approached critical heights.
Impact on Infrastructure and Transportation
The impact of Jangmi has been profound, with heavy rainfall leading to significant disruption across the capital and surrounding regions. Traffic has ground to a halt in parts of Tokyo, while hundreds of flights—approximately 760 domestic and over 90 international—were cancelled as a result of the storm. Rail services have also been severely affected, with substantial delays and suspensions reported across various lines.
Notably, several JR East routes, including the Shonan-Shinjuku and Chuo lines, were suspended from early Wednesday. Local media reported that branches had become entangled in overhead power lines, further complicating transport efforts. Tokyo Metro and other private railway companies urged passengers to prepare for continued disruptions as the storm progresses.
Evacuations and Safety Measures
In response to the storm’s severity, local authorities have issued evacuation orders in multiple areas. Regions such as Omaezaki in Shizuoka, Kihoku in Mie, and parts of Kanagawa and Chiba prefectures have seen residents urged to leave their homes to ensure their safety. Landslide alerts are also in effect for areas including Ito, Shimoda, and Atami in Shizuoka, highlighting the extensive risks posed by the severe weather.
In Okinawa, where the typhoon initially made its presence felt, 16 individuals sustained minor injuries prior to its northward trajectory towards Wakayama. As the storm continues to develop, the JMA forecasts rain accumulations that could reach up to 200mm in the Kanto-Koshin and Tokai regions, with localised higher amounts possible.
Future Projections and Preparedness
As Typhoon Jangmi progresses, meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation, with forecasts indicating that the worst is yet to come. The potential for localised heavy rainfall remains high, and authorities are preparing for the possibility of escalating impacts.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and follow guidance from local authorities as the storm continues to unfold.
Why it Matters
The arrival of Typhoon Jangmi underscores the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events in Japan, drawing attention to the vulnerabilities of urban infrastructure and the imperative for robust disaster preparedness. This situation serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of resilience in the face of climate change, as communities must adapt to the realities of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. The ongoing response to Typhoon Jangmi will likely shape discussions around future preparedness strategies and infrastructure resilience in Japan.
