Peace Boat Disaster Relief

PBV Typhoon Mawar's Flood Response

June, 2023

Typhoon No. 2 (Mawar) significantly impacted the Okinawa region from May 31 to June 2. The seasonal rain front remained stationary near Japan's Main Island from June 1 to the morning of June 3. The warm and humid air surrounding the typhoon caused the rain front to become active, resulting in heavy rainfall and extensive damage in the Kinki, Tokai, and Kanto regions. As of June 6, 2023, the floods have resulted in one fatality, two missing individuals, and approximately 5,410 houses being inundated above floor level.

Following the floods, disaster relief organizations promptly dispatched teams to conduct damage assessments in the affected regions. These teams have been closely collaborating with local social welfare councils in the affected communities. Regular online meetings are being held to share information and gain a comprehensive understanding of the overall damage. Peace Boat Disaster Relief (PBV) sent staff members to Koshigaya (Saitama) and Toride (Ibaraki) on June 3 and 4 to assess the damage and plan appropriate interventions.

One of the affected areas is Toride City in Ibaraki Prefecture. Due to the proximity of the city's evacuation center, which is a 20-minute drive from the flooded area, many residents were unable to reach it and are currently staying in their flooded homes.

To address this situation, the City's Social Welfare Council is planning to establish a Disaster Volunteer Center. PBV participated in the meeting to prepare for its establishment. PBV is providing materials and equipment such as blowers and water pumps to flooded houses, and offering support to a flooded kindergarten. Additionally, PBV is maintaining communication with other NGOs throughout Japan and is prepared to intervene where necessary.

PBV has launched an emergency relief fund to support the ongoing relief activities in the affected communities. With the rainy season just beginning in Japan, there is a high risk of further floods and typhoons in the next four to five months. The Partner appeals to generous donors worldwide to contribute to response and recovery efforts and help communities overcome this challenging time.