Typhoon Shanshan Strikes Southwestern Japan: Mass Evacuations and Power Outages

Southwestern Japan experienced severe weather as Typhoon Shanshan made landfall in Kagoshima prefecture, causing extensive power outages and injuring dozens. With gusts reaching 216 km per hour, the storm prompted mass evacuations and disrupted major industries and transportation. Authorities report one missing person and anticipate further impacts.

Southwestern Japan was battered on Thursday by Typhoon Shanshan, which made landfall in Kagoshima prefecture. The powerful storm resulted in power outages for over a quarter million households and left dozens injured.

Local authorities issued evacuation orders for millions, warning that Shanshan could be one of the region's strongest typhoons ever. According to NHK, 39 people were injured, and one person is reported missing. Footage showed buildings in Miyazaki with shattered windows and debris strewn across streets.

The typhoon caused significant disruptions to daily life, including the suspension of operations by major automakers such as Toyota and Nissan, and the cancellation of over 600 domestic flights. Train services were also halted in many parts of Kyushu. As Shanshan progresses, it is expected to affect central and eastern Japan, including Tokyo, by the weekend.

(With inputs from agencies.)