Typhoon Wipha battered Japan’s eastern coast on October 16, 2013. The small island of Oshima, located some 75 miles (120 km) south of Tokyo, was among the hardest-hit areas. The storm’s torrential rains, which totaled some 33 inches (84 cm), caused rivers to overflow their banks and triggered massive mudslides, killing at least 35 people. The Japan branch office of Jehovah’s Witnesses confirmed that none of the members of the local congregation in Oshima were killed or injured. The home of one Witness family sustained roof damage, and fellow congregation members assisted with repairs. The local Witnesses also reached out to their neighbors, offering them aid and spiritual comfort.

Media Contact(s):

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Japan: Shiro Hayasaki, tel +81 46 233 0005