Typhoon Lan makes landfall in Japan, thousands told to seek safety
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As Typhoon Lan moves through Japan's urban centres, it could cause billions of dollars in insured losses.
PHOTO: AFP
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TOKYO – Nearly 900 flights were cancelled
Typhoon Lan, approaching from the Pacific Ocean, made landfall early on Tuesday at the southern tip of Wakayama prefecture, some 400km south-west of Tokyo, bringing heavy rain and powerful winds across a wide swathe of central and western Japan as it moved north.
The authorities issued flood and landslide warnings, as rivers rose to the top of their banks, with parts of some bridges washed away. Tornadoes formed in several areas but did not cause major damage.
By evening, the centre of the storm – which had weakened to tropical storm strength – was nearing the Sea of Japan, though forecasters warned that concentrated rain was still possible across a wide area.
It continued to move slowly, at around 15kmh, raising the potential for flooding as rain pelted the same areas for a long time. Parts of central Japan recorded 585mm of rain in the 24 hours to 7pm.
Some two dozen people were injured, with one in serious condition, NHK public television said.
The authorities said they had set up evacuation centres in safe buildings and high ground for residents across 11 prefectures whom the Fire and Disaster Management Agency had told to seek shelter.
As well as the disruption to flights, the dangerous rain and wind forced the closure of some roads and the suspension of dozens of train services, although by evening on Tuesday, some roads were reopening.
Dozens of train lines in central and western Japan were forced to suspend services due to dangerous levels of rain and wind.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
The storm comes days after Typhoon Khanun
High waves hitting seawalls in Kiho, Mie Prefecture, on Monday as Typhoon Lan approached western Japan.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Power outages hit almost 90,000 households in central and western areas, utilities said. Seven & i said some 210 7-Eleven convenience store outlets were shut for safety reasons. REUTERS
