26 Jul 2018 | 07:42 AM UTC
Japan: Tropical storm to hit Honshu island July 28
Severe Tropical Storm Jongdari is forecast to hit central Honshu island July 28; flooding, power outages, and transportation disruptions possible
Event
According to forecasts on Thursday, July 26, Severe Tropical Cyclone Jongdari is expected to make landfall in central Honshu island on the evening (local time) of Saturday, July 28. As of 12:00 on Thursday, the storm was approximately 1480 km (920 mi) south of Tokyo, with sustained winds of 101 km/h (63 mph) and gusts up to 130 km/h (81 mph). Jongdari is forecast to become a typhoon before making landfall and could bring rainfalls up to 30 cm (12 in) in the region, including in Tokyo. The prefectures of Shizuoka, Nagano, Aichi, Fukui, and Gifu are also expected to experience strong winds and heavy rain. Flooding, mudslides, power outages, and transportation disruptions are possible from July 28 through Monday, July 30, as the storm moves through the region.
Context
Typhoons and tropical storms regularly hit these areas from June through November after gathering strength in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea.
Advice
Individuals in Japan or planning on traveling to Japan in the coming days are advised to monitor weather conditions until July 30, be prepared for transportation disruptions, and obey any instructions issued by the local authorities.
