Tropical Storm Mawar brings heavy rains, landslide risk to Japan’s southern islands as it passes by

Tropical Storm Mawar: Heavy Rains and Landslide Risk in Japan’s Southern Islands

Introduction

Tropical Storm Mawar, previously a super typhoon, made its way through Japan, affecting the southern islands. This article discusses the impact of the storm, including heavy rains, injuries, and the risk of landslides.

Heavy Rains and Injuries

As Tropical Storm Mawar passed the Okinawan archipelago, it brought heavy rains to Japan’s main southern islands. Several people sustained injuries during the storm, with eight individuals injured in Okinawa. While most injuries were minor, an older woman suffered a serious head injury in Nishihara city.

Warning and Flight Cancellations

Residents in vulnerable areas were alerted about the potential for flooding and mudslides. Dozens of local flights were canceled to ensure the safety of individuals in the affected regions.

Weakened but Still Threatening

Although Tropical Storm Mawar weakened from a super typhoon, it still posed risks due to warm and damp air intensifying seasonal rains. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned of the threat of flooding and mudslides caused by the storm.

Rainfall Forecast and Warnings

The meteorological agency forecasted up to 35 centimeters (1.1 feet) of rain within the next 24 hours, extending until Saturday morning. In response, the agency issued flooding and mudslide warnings in parts of southwestern Japan, advising caution for residents living near rivers and hillsides.

Previous Impact and Military Precautions

Tropical Storm Mawar had previously affected Guam, Taiwan, and the northern Philippines. It caused waves to crash along Taiwan’s east coast and brought heavy rains to the northern Philippines, resulting in minimal damage. In Japan, military precautions were taken due to the storm’s approach. Some PAC-3 land-to-air interceptors, deployed for a North Korean rocket launch, were kept on base as a safety measure.

Tracking by the U.S. Military

With multiple military facilities stationed on Okinawa, the U.S. military closely monitored Tropical Storm Mawar to ensure the safety of its troops.

Recovery Efforts in Guam

Before reaching Japan, Mawar severely impacted Guam, becoming the strongest typhoon to hit the U.S. Pacific territory in over two decades. As of Wednesday, power restoration progress stood at 28%, while the water system was only partially operational. FEMA estimated that it would take four to six weeks to fully restore power, and the exact number of homes destroyed was yet to be determined.

In conclusion, Tropical Storm Mawar brought heavy rains, injuries, and the risk of landslides to Japan’s southern islands. Authorities issued warnings and precautions to mitigate the impact, while recovery efforts continued in previously affected areas such as Guam.

What impact did Tropical Storm Mawar have on Japan’s southern islands?

Tropical Storm Mawar brought heavy rains and posed a risk of landslides to Japan’s southern islands. It caused injuries to several people and led to the cancellation of local flights. Residents in vulnerable areas were warned about the potential for flooding and mudslides.

How strong was Tropical Storm Mawar?

Tropical Storm Mawar had initially been a super typhoon but weakened as it approached Japan’s southern islands. The winds were blowing up to 90 kph (56 mph) as it moved east of Okinoerabujima over the Pacific Ocean, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.

What precautions were taken in response to the storm?

Authorities issued warnings about the potential for flooding and mudslides, particularly in southwestern Japan. Residents living near rivers and hillsides were advised to exercise caution. Additionally, dozens of local flights were canceled to ensure the safety of individuals in the affected regions.

Did Tropical Storm Mawar impact any other regions before reaching Japan?

Yes, Tropical Storm Mawar previously affected Guam, Taiwan, and the northern Philippines. It caused waves to crash along Taiwan’s east coast and brought heavy rains to the northern Philippines, resulting in minimal damage.

How did the U.S. military respond to the storm?

With multiple military facilities stationed on Okinawa, the U.S. military closely monitored Tropical Storm Mawar to ensure the safety of its troops. Precautions were taken, including keeping some PAC-3 land-to-air interceptors on base instead of setting them up at intended locations.

How long is the recovery process in previously affected areas like Guam?

In Guam, where Mawar caused significant impact, recovery efforts were underway. As of Wednesday, power restoration progress stood at 28%, and the water system was partially operational. It was estimated that it would take four to six weeks to fully restore power, and the exact number of homes destroyed was yet to be determined.