Widespread impact of Typhoon Khanun in Japan: Deaths, power outages, and cancelled flights

In Japan, Typhoon Khanun, described by the Japanese weather agency as “very strong,” left hundreds of thousands without electricity as it approached the island nation with powerful winds of 180 kilometers (around 112 miles) an hour. As per news agency AFP, two people were killed, and extensive disruptions were caused, including the cancellation of hundreds of flights.

Hundreds of Flights Cancelled, Leaving Tourists Stranded

Due to the impact of Typhoon Khanun, hundreds of flights to Okinawa and other islands in the region were cancelled, leaving thousands of tourists stranded at popular beach resorts. More than 400 flights were cancelled on Wednesday alone, affecting over 65,000 passengers. Tourists were seen queuing at Okinawa’s main Naha airport, with some expressing concerns about accommodations and return flights.

A tourist, Minako Kawakami, told the local daily Okinawa Times, “We haven’t been able to secure a hotel and we don’t know when the return flight can be booked.”

Japan faces Typhoon Khanun’s wrath: 180km/h winds, widespread outages, and travel disruptions. Photo courtesy of 51581 from Pixabay.

Power Outages and Evacuation Warnings in Okinawa and Kagoshima

Okinawa’s power company reported that nearly 35% of the families in the region, or 220,580 households, were left without electricity early on Wednesday. An evacuation warning was issued across Okinawa and the southern part of the Kagoshima region, with the Fire and Disaster Management Agency urging over 690,000 residents to move to safety.

Fatalities and Injuries Amid Typhoon Khanun’s Devastation

A 90-year-old man tragically died after becoming trapped under a collapsed bridge on Tuesday evening, with strong winds likely the cause, according to public broadcaster NHK. Another fatality was reported in Okinawa, but details remain undisclosed. Additionally, 41 people were injured in Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures.

Warnings of Flooding and Landslides

The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of potential flooding and landslides in parts of Okinawa’s main island. At around 2300 GMT, the typhoon was 70 kilometers south of Okinawa’s remote Kumejima island and expected to cross to eastern China later in the week.