Japanese Archipelago Struck by Two Successive Tropical Storms
The Izu archipelago have faced yet another severe impact as tropical cyclone Nakri swept through the region on Monday, following in the footsteps of storm Halong, which hit seven days prior.
Immediate Impact on the Island of Hachijojima
Local authorities on Hachijojima reported disruption and damage to about 220 homes after the typhoon brought 37mm (1.5in) of rain in one hour and gusts of up to 95mph (152km/h). Airport operations were disrupted, infrastructure damaged, and intense rains caused ground slides across the group of islands. The typhoon also produced waves as high as 9 meters, creating dangerous coastal conditions. Near Oiso on the Pacific side, in Kanagawa prefecture, three men were swept away while fishing, with one fatality reported.
Nakri's Transformation
Nakri has since transitioned into an extratropical cyclone, losing strength while traveling east over chilled northern Pacific seas, with gusts reducing to around 65mph as of Thursday. Riding the jet stream, its remaining parts are headed to reach the Canadian province of British Columbia, delivering intense precipitation, powerful gusts, and coastal flooding.
Recalling Halong's Fury
Seven days before, Halong discharged more than 200mm of rain in three hours, as peak wind speeds hit 122mph. By late morning last Thursday, precipitation levels climbed to 349mm, shattering the 24-hour record. The storm's leftovers then crossed the north 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. A single fatality occurred, homes were destroyed, and about 1,500 residents were forced into shelters. The state underwent an historic mass evacuation by air to relocate affected individuals. Halong remains one of the most powerful storms the area has ever seen. Its rapid intensification was fuelled by abnormally hot northern Pacific seas, which provided extra heat and moisture.
Double Trouble in Mexico
Meanwhile, the country faced two consecutive hits last week as the remnants of Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Raymond combined, releasing nearly 609mm of precipitation over four days across central and eastern regions. Steered by a dip in the jet stream, both systems hit the same area in quick succession. The initial heavy rains from Priscilla made the soil waterlogged, worsening floods as Raymond approached. Over 300 localities were impacted by mudslides and river overflows. As of Wednesday, 66 fatalities were verified and 75 remain missing. Search and relief efforts persist, with stagnant floodwaters raising health concerns in isolated areas.
