Over 2 million under evacuation orders as twin typhoons hit Japan

More than two million people across western Japan were under evacuation orders on Friday as two typhoons threatened the country with heavy rain, flooding, and landslides, local media reported. The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that Typhoon Higos could make landfall on Saturday after moving north from the Pacific, while Typhoon Mekkhala was approaching the Amami region and could move toward Kanto the next day. Both storms are expected to weaken into extratropical cyclones after approaching Japan but are still capable of bringing dangerous weather.

Rainfall and emergency alerts

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency said more than 2 million residents across 13 prefectures were under evacuation orders. Authorities issued the highest Level 5 emergency alert for parts of Seika in Kyoto Prefecture after a landslide struck. Goto in Nagasaki Prefecture received about 600 mm of rain between Tuesday and Friday morning, while more than 500 mm fell in Kumamoto and Saga prefectures. Up to 300 mm of additional rainfall is forecast for the Tokai region by Saturday.

Preparedness and warnings

Officials urged residents to remain alert for flash floods, landslides, and other storm‑related hazards. Japan’s disaster management system has been tested by multiple extreme weather events in recent years, and authorities are coordinating with local governments to ensure timely evacuations.