Devastating Typhoon Khanun Leaves Southern Japan Powerless

In the face of Typhoon Khanun's formidable approach, southern Japan was plunged into chaos, with devastating consequences for its residents and tourists alike. The typhoon, characterized as "very strong" by Japan's weather agency, unleashed powerful winds and relentless rain, leading to the tragic death of a 90-year-old man and leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity.

Power Outages and Evacuation Warnings

Okinawa, a region known for its tropical beach resorts, bore the brunt of the typhoon's fury. As the storm made its way closer, wind speeds reached a maximum sustained velocity of 180 kilometers per hour (112 miles per hour). The power company in Okinawa reported that almost 35 percent of households, comprising 220,580 homes, were left without electricity as the typhoon struck.

The situation became increasingly perilous as an evacuation warning was issued across Okinawa and the southern part of Kagoshima region, prompting over 690,000 residents to seek safer ground. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency mobilized efforts to ensure their safety amid the mounting threat of flooding and landslides.

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Tourist Stranded and Flights Cancelled

The typhoon's disruptive path led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights to Okinawa and neighboring islands, leaving more than 65,000 passengers stranded. Among those affected were numerous tourists who had traveled to enjoy the region's tropical allure. At the main Naha airport, scenes of frustration and uncertainty unfolded as tourists stood in lengthy queues, hoping for a chance to return home. Minako Kawakami, one of the stranded tourists, expressed the struggles they faced, unable to secure accommodations and uncertain about when they could book a return flight.

As Typhoon Khanun pressed onward, with its eye situated about 70 kilometers south of Okinawa's remote Kumejima island, the region braced for the potential havoc it could inflict. Despite the tragic loss and extensive disruptions, authorities remained vigilant, closely monitoring the typhoon's trajectory and its subsequent path towards eastern China in the days to come.