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Twin Tropical Storms and Baiu Rain Front Trigger Mass Evacuations in Japan

Forecasters say tropical moisture feeding a seasonal Baiu front is producing intense downpours that risk more landslides and river flooding.

Overview

  • The Japan Meteorological Agency issued Level 3 and Level 4 landslide warnings and evacuation orders affecting about one million people after concentrated rain intensified on June 27.
  • Heavy rain linked to Tropical Storms Mekkhala and Higos has caused at least three confirmed deaths, including two in Taiwan and one in Japan, and prompted active search and rescue operations.
  • Transport and industry were widely disrupted with more than 200 flight cancellations, dozens of train services suspended, many expressway closures, and a temporary halt to Toyota factory operations.
  • A magnitude-5.6 quake that struck Yamanashi hours before the heaviest rain damaged structures and increased slope instability, raising concern that shaking made landslides more likely.
  • Forecasters warned of up to about 250 millimeters of additional rain in parts of Tokai and Shizuoka and urged residents to follow evacuation guidance as emergency crews and the Self-Defense Force respond.