Shinkansen bullet train operations in the Kyushu region of southwestern Japan experienced temporary disruptions on Thursday afternoon. The cause was heavy rainfall associated with a typhoon that had made landfall. The operator of the train services confirmed the suspensions.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the typhoon, named Lingling, had developed over the sea near Kagoshima Prefecture earlier in the day. It then began moving across the southern part of Kyushu shortly after 5 p.m.
The agency noted that it was unusual for a low-pressure system to intensify into a typhoon so close to the island.
JR Kyushu announced that services on the Kyushu Shinkansen Line, specifically between Kumamoto and Kagoshima-chuo stations, were halted. The first suspension lasted approximately an hour, starting at 2:10 p.m. A second suspension occurred around 4:35 p.m. and lasted about 90 minutes.
Typhoon Lingling progressed slowly eastward. By 3 a.m. on Friday, it was located in Miyazaki, the capital of the neighboring Miyazaki Prefecture.
The arrival of Typhoon Lingling followed a period of intense rainfall in the region. The earlier downpours had led to flooding and landslides, which resulted in casualties.
6 Comments
Loubianka
Weather can be unpredictable; it’s good to see precautionary measures being taken.
Noir Black
I always felt safe traveling on the Shinkansen, and this just proves they take safety seriously.
Kyle Broflovski
Kudos to the Japan Meteorological Agency for keeping everyone informed about Typhoon Lingling.
Stan Marsh
Props to JR Kyushu for acting quickly in light of the weather. Better safe than sorry!
Eric Cartman
The train companies should invest in better infrastructure to handle these weather events.
Donatello
The delay is unfortunate, but safety is non-negotiable. Thank you for taking care of us!