Japanese Archipelago Hit by Back-to-Back Typhoons

The Izu Islands have endured another powerful blow as Typhoon Nakri swept through the region on Monday, coming just after Typhoon Halong, which hit seven days prior.

Immediate Impact on Hachijojima Island

Officials on Hachijojima Island noted interruptions and destruction to about 220 homes after the storm brought 37mm (1.5in) of rain in one hour and wind bursts reaching 95mph. Airport operations were disrupted, infrastructure damaged, and intense rains caused ground slides across the island chain. The typhoon also produced waves as high as 9 meters, creating dangerous coastal conditions. Off the Pacific coast in Oiso, in the Kanagawa region, three men were swept away while fishing, with one fatality reported.

The Evolution of Nakri

The storm has since shifted into an non-tropical storm system, losing strength while traveling east over chilled northern Pacific seas, with gusts reducing to around 65mph as of Thursday. Riding the jet stream, its remnants are on track to reach the Canadian province of British Columbia, delivering intense precipitation, powerful gusts, and coastal flooding.

Recalling Halong's Fury

Seven days before, Halong had unleashed more than 200mm of rain in three hours, as peak wind speeds hit 122mph. By the late morning of the previous Thursday, precipitation levels climbed to 349mm, breaking the daily rainfall record. The storm's leftovers then traveled over the northern Pacific and arrived in Alaska on Sunday, causing an unprecedented 2-meter coastal surge.

Significant Harm in Alaska

The seaside communities Kipnuk and Kwigillingok were the most affected. One person died, houses were ruined, and about 1,500 residents were forced into shelters. Alaska experienced one of the largest airlifts in its history to relocate affected individuals. Halong remains one of the most powerful storms the region has experienced. Its rapid intensification was fuelled by unusually warm north Pacific waters, which supplied additional warmth and humidity.

Double Trouble in Mexico

At the same time, the country faced two consecutive hits last week as the leftovers of Priscilla and Raymond combined, dumping about 609mm of rain in four days across the central and eastern areas. Guided by a trough in the air current, both systems hit the same area in quick succession. The first deluge from Priscilla left the ground saturated, worsening floods as Raymond approached. More than 300 communities were impacted by mudslides and river overflows. As of Wednesday, 66 people have been confirmed dead and 75 remain missing. Search and relief efforts persist, with stagnant floodwaters raising health concerns in isolated areas.

Kimberly Boyd
Kimberly Boyd

A passionate writer and explorer, Evelyn shares her experiences and tips for embracing new perspectives and adventures in everyday life.