07 Aug 2019 | 01:45 AM UTC
Japan: Typhoon Lekima to affect Sakishima and Okinawa August 8-9
Heavy rain and strong winds forecast to impact Sakishima Islands and Okinawa regions on August 8-9 as Typhoon Lekima moves through the area
Event
The Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) is forecasting that heavy rain and strong winds will affect the Sakishima Islands and Okinawa region from Thursday, August 8, through Friday, August 9, as Typhoon Lekima moves through the area. Rainfall totals from 20-30 cm (8-12 in) are expected in Okinawa region. High waves and swells are also anticipated in Okinawa and Amami regions. Lekima is forecast to strengthen as it approaches the islands in the coming days.
As of 09:00 (local time) on Wednesday, August 7, Lekima is located approximately 20.2°N 128.0°E in the Philippines Sea, according to the JMA (map here). The storm has maximum sustained winds of 130 kph (80 mph) and is moving slowly north-northwest at 7 kph (4 mph). Flooding, landslides, power outages, and transportation disruptions, including flight delays and road closures, are possible in the affected areas over the coming days
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.
