Typhoon Haiabis - October 2019

Causes

Formed over warm Pacific waters - intensified due to favourable atmospheric conditions, including low wind shear and high humidity.

How many died

118 - 66% over age 65 - vulnerability of Japan’s aging population

Evacuations = displacement

Tens of thousands were evacuated - had to stay in temporary shelters due to the destruction of homes and infrastructure disrupting communities and social networks

Economic Cost

$20 billion in damages to infrastructure, homes, business & agricultural land = strain to recovery efforts

Insurance Burden

Billions of dollars in claims = one of Japan’s costliest disasters impacting both individuals and industries.

Water contamination

Flooding led to contamination of water bodies with sewage, chemicals and debris, posing health risks to affected populations and ecosystems

Destruction to natural habitats

Damaged natural habitats, affecting local wildlife and floodwaters introduced pollutants and debris into ecosystems - impacts on aquatic and terrestrial life

Evacuations and shelter

government issued early warning systems and housed thousands in emergency shelters for safety during the storm

Infrastructure repair and flood control

accelerated flood control programs and enhanced weather observation to improve resilience against future storms as levees and flood barriers were damaged

Government Commitment to Climate Adaptation

Minister Abe pledged continuous support for disaster victims and a commitment to strengthen Japan’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan, acknowledging the increasing severity of typhoons due to climate change.

How many people were evacuated

230000