A slow-moving typhoon made landfall in western Japan during the early hours of Tuesday, causing significant disruptions. More than 800 flights experienced delays, and tens of thousands of homes lost power, leading authorities to release flood and landslide advisories.
Typhoon Lan, which originated from the Pacific, struck the southernmost point of Wakayama prefecture, approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles) southwest of Tokyo.
Occurring amid Japan's Obon holiday period, the typhoon, following closely after Typhoon Khanun, unleashed heavy rain and forceful gusts across large swathes of central and western Japan.
Television footage captured rivers on the verge of overflowing their banks, while residences and establishments faced water damage. In Nara city, robust winds toppled scaffolding at a construction site.
Regional utility providers reported power interruptions affecting nearly 90,000 households in central and western Japan.
Furthermore, approximately 210 7-Eleven convenience stores were closed to prioritize safety.
Reuters noted that the severe rainfall and strong winds compelled road closures and the suspension of dozens of train services in the affected region.
Over the next 24 hours, the central Tokai region—home to Toyota Motor—anticipated receiving around 350 mm (13.8 inches) of rainfall, nearly three times the usual August precipitation. Many factories halt operations during the Obon holidays as urban residents return to their ancestral homes.
With sustained winds reaching 150 kph (93 mph), Typhoon Lan progressed northwest across Honshu's western portion at a speed of about 15 kph (9 mph). Japan's meteorological agency predicted its trajectory would lead it to the Sea of Japan by early Wednesday, followed by a northward course along the coastline.
