On September 5, 2025, Typhoon 15, locally known as a powerful tropical cyclone, unleashed its fury on Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Fueled by intense linear rainbands, the typhoon triggered torrential rainfall, causing widespread damage to buildings, power outages, and injuries across multiple cities and towns. This blog post dives into the impact of Typhoon 15, offering insights into the damages, recovery efforts, and tips for travelers and residents during Japan’s typhoon season.
The Impact of Typhoon 15 in Shizuoka Prefecture
According to reports from Shizuoka Prefecture, as of 2:30 PM on September 5, 2025, Typhoon 15 caused significant damage across seven municipalities: Fujieda, Shimada, Makinohara, Yoshida, Iwata, Kakegawa, and Omaezaki. A total of 76 buildings were affected, with the breakdown of damages as follows:
- 6 buildings completely destroyed
- 34 buildings partially destroyed
- 11 buildings with minor damage
- 5 buildings with above-floor flooding
- 19 buildings with below-floor flooding
- 1 public facility damaged
The city of Hamamatsu reported one minor injury, a reminder of the human toll such natural disasters can take. Additionally, power outages affected a peak of 20,730 households, with 18,290 households still without electricity as recovery efforts continue. These outages have disrupted daily life, impacting homes, businesses, and essential services.
The intense rainfall, driven by linear rainbands, led to record-breaking precipitation in some areas, with Shizuoka Prefecture experiencing over 500 mm (20 inches) of rain in just 12 hours in certain regions. This caused rivers to overflow, triggered landslides, and damaged infrastructure, including a bridge in Hamamatsu. In Makinohara, an apparent tornado associated with the typhoon tore roofs and exterior walls off residential homes, further compounding the destruction.
Japan’s Typhoon Season: What You Need to Know
Japan’s typhoon season typically spans from May to October, with peak activity in August and September. During this period, tropical cyclones form in the northwestern Pacific, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding to the Japanese archipelago. Shizuoka Prefecture, located in central Japan, is particularly vulnerable due to its coastal position and mountainous terrain, which can exacerbate flooding and landslides during typhoons.
For international travelers or expatriates living in Japan, understanding the risks of typhoon season is crucial. While Japan is well-prepared for natural disasters, with robust infrastructure and early warning systems, typhoons can still cause significant disruptions. Evacuation orders, such as those issued for over 1.08 million residents in 12 municipalities during a previous typhoon in 2022, highlight the scale of these events. Staying informed through reliable sources like the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) can help ensure safety.
Recovery and Resilience in Shizuoka
Shizuoka Prefecture is no stranger to typhoons, and local authorities are working diligently to restore normalcy. Efforts are underway to repair damaged infrastructure, restore power, and support affected residents. However, the risk of secondary disasters, such as landslides due to saturated soil, remains a concern. The prefectural government has also warned residents about opportunistic scams that often emerge in the aftermath of natural disasters, urging vigilance against fraudulent contractors offering repair services.
For those planning to visit Shizuoka, known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, tea plantations, and coastal attractions, it’s advisable to check weather updates and travel advisories before planning your trip. While the region is resilient, recovery from such events can take time, and some areas may experience temporary closures or disruptions.
Tips for Navigating Japan’s Typhoon Season
- Stay Informed: Monitor updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) or international weather services for real-time information on typhoon paths and warnings.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, food, flashlights, and first-aid supplies in case of power outages or evacuations.
- Know Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation centers and routes, especially if staying in coastal or flood-prone areas.
- Travel Insurance: For visitors, consider purchasing travel insurance that covers natural disasters to mitigate financial risks from cancellations or delays.
By taking these precautions, residents and visitors can minimize risks and stay safe during Japan’s unpredictable typhoon season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the typhoon season in Japan?
Japan’s typhoon season typically runs from May to October, with the most intense activity occurring in August and September. During this period, an average of 5 typhoons form in September alone.
2. How does Shizuoka Prefecture prepare for typhoons?
Shizuoka Prefecture has robust disaster preparedness measures, including early warning systems, evacuation plans, and infrastructure designed to withstand heavy rainfall and winds. Local authorities also issue timely updates and evacuation orders to protect residents.
3. What should tourists do if a typhoon hits during their trip?
Tourists should monitor weather updates, follow local authorities’ instructions, and avoid travel during severe weather warnings. It’s also wise to have a flexible itinerary and travel insurance to cover disruptions.
4. Are power outages common during typhoons in Japan?
Yes, power outages are common during typhoons due to damaged power lines from strong winds or flooding. In Shizuoka, Typhoon 15 left over 18,000 households without electricity, though restoration efforts are typically swift.
Conclusion
Typhoon 15’s impact on Shizuoka Prefecture serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness during Japan’s typhoon season. While the region faces challenges in rebuilding, its resilience and proactive measures ensure a swift recovery. For those planning to visit or live in Japan, staying informed and prepared is key to safely navigating this dynamic season. By understanding the risks and taking precautions, you can enjoy all that Shizuoka and Japan have to offer, even amidst the unpredictability of typhoons.
