Typhoon No. 6 brought heavy rain and strong winds to Tokyo and the Kanto region on Wednesday, causing street flooding and widespread evacuation orders [1, 2].

The storm's impact on Japan's capital disrupts one of the world's most densely populated urban centers, threatening critical infrastructure and the daily commute of millions.

The typhoon made landfall in southern Wakayama Prefecture around 4:30 JST on June 3 [1]. The system, which first formed on May 27, 2026 [2], moved through the Kanto region, bringing intense rainfall that led to rapid water accumulation on streets in districts such as Ariake and Adachi [1, 2].

Authorities issued evacuation directives to protect residents from rising waters. Reports on the scale of these orders vary by source. One report said approximately 1.4 million people were ordered to evacuate [1], while another report as of 13:30 JST on June 3 cited approximately 180,000 people [2].

Pedestrians and commuters struggled against the elements as the storm progressed. One passerby said, "It really feels like (the umbrella) is about to fly away" [1]. Another person waiting at a traffic light said, "Terrible. Terrible. I'm okay" [1].

Despite the hazardous conditions, some residents continued to travel to work. One commuter said their workplace does not allow remote work and that while the company told them not to overdo it, they pushed through because the trains were still running [1].

Emergency response teams remain active as the storm continues to affect the region. Local officials have urged residents to follow evacuation orders and avoid flooded areas to prevent accidents, particularly in low-lying districts where water levels rose quickly [1, 2].

“"It really feels like (the umbrella) is about to fly away"”

The discrepancy in evacuation numbers highlights the fluid nature of emergency directives during a natural disaster, where totals can shift rapidly as different municipalities issue or lift orders. The continued reliance on physical commuting despite severe weather underscores the persistent cultural and corporate challenges regarding remote work flexibility in Japan's corporate sector.