Japan’s Southern Islands Brace for Heavy Rains and Mudslide Threat from Typhoon Mawar
Residents in vulnerable areas were warned of the potential for flooding and mudslides as Tropical Storm Mawar made its way across Japan’s main southern islands after passing Okinawa. The storm caused injuries to several people, with strong winds continuing in Okinawa and eight individuals being harmed. Although Mawar weakened from a super typhoon, it still had winds of up to 90 kph (56 mph) as it moved eastward over the Pacific Ocean.
While wind damage in Okinawa was limited, the warm and damp air from the tropical storm intensified seasonal rains, posing a threat of flooding and mudslides. The Japan Meteorological Agency forecasted up to 35 centimeters (1.1 feet) of rain over the next 24 hours, prompting flooding and mudslide warnings in southwestern Japan. Residents near rivers and hillsides were advised to exercise caution.
Mawar mostly avoided Taiwan and the Philippines, although it did bring heavy rains and crashing waves to Taiwan’s east coast. The storm had previously ravaged Guam. In preparation for a North Korean rocket launch, Japan had deployed PAC-3 land-to-air interceptors on southern islands. However, due to safety precautions, some of the interceptors remained on base instead of being set up as intended.
The U.S. military, stationed at various facilities in Okinawa, closely monitored the storm. Mawar’s impact on Guam left significant damage, with power and water systems still in the process of being restored. Long lines for gas persisted, and it may take four to six weeks before power is fully reinstated. The exact number of homes destroyed is yet to be determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
