On Wednesday, 3 June 2026, Typhoon Jangmi made landfall in Japan’s Wakayama prefecture, unleashing torrential rainfall and prompting the issuance of the country’s highest-level flood warnings. As the storm progressed, substantial disruptions ensued, affecting travel and power supply across the region. Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to seek higher ground as the threat of flooding and landslides intensifies.
Typhoon’s Impact and Warnings
Typhoon Jangmi, packing wind speeds of up to 126 km/h, approached the Kanto region, raising alarm among meteorological officials. Japanese weather agencies have issued urgent advisories for several areas, particularly those near rivers and low-lying regions. In Tokyo, residents near the Zenpukuji river have been advised to evacuate or take shelter due to rising water levels threatening to overflow.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that heavy rainfall is expected to persist, with forecasts predicting as much as 200 mm across the Kanto-Koshin and Tokai regions by Thursday morning. The city of Owase recorded a staggering 50 cm of rainfall within just 24 hours, illustrating the storm’s ferocity.
Widespread Disruption to Transport Services
As the storm wreaked havoc, transport services across Japan faced significant challenges. Hundreds of flights were cancelled, with around 760 domestic and over 90 international flights grounded as a direct result of the severe weather. Rail services were also heavily impacted; major lines including the Shonan-Shinjuku, Chuo, and Tokaido lines were suspended, with operators indicating that some services might resume later in the day.
The storm disrupted daily life in Tokyo, where traffic came to a standstill and power outages affected more than 5,000 homes in the greater Tokyo area. Local media reported that several train routes encountered delays and cancellations, particularly on the Hachiko Line, where fallen branches interfered with overhead power lines.
Safety Measures and Evacuations
In response to the escalating situation, Japanese authorities have implemented precautionary measures, including issuing evacuation orders in multiple locations such as Shizuoka, Mie, Kanagawa, and Chiba prefectures. Specific areas like Omaezaki and Kihoku have seen proactive evacuations, while alerts have been raised for landslides in cities such as Ito and Shimoda.
As the storm continues to track eastward along Japan’s Pacific coast, the potential for further rainfall and subsequent flooding remains a critical concern. Residents are being advised to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines as the situation develops.
Why it Matters
The impact of Typhoon Jangmi underscores the increasing vulnerability of Japan to severe weather events exacerbated by climate change. As the nation grapples with the immediate consequences of the storm, including infrastructural damage and disruptions to daily life, the broader implications for disaster preparedness and climate resilience are brought to the forefront. This event serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for robust strategies to mitigate the risks posed by future extreme weather phenomena.
