Japan: Severe Tropical Storm Dolphin forms in northern Philippine Sea September 21

Event

Severe Tropical Storm Dolphin formed in the northern Philippine Sea on Monday, September 21. According to the Japan Meteorological Association (JMA), Dolphin is located 567km (353mi) east of Amami as of Tuesday, September 22, and is moving in a northerly direction at 15kph (9mph). Dolphin is currently sustaining winds of 93kph (60mph) and is expected to strengthen to sustain maximum winds of 102kph (63mph) as it moves towards the south coast of central Japan. Dolphin's track may change in the coming days; however, it is currently forecast to make landfall in the vicinity of Numazu (Shizuoka prefecture) between Thursday, September 24, and Friday, September 25. Forecasters have warned that Dolphin will bring the possibility of heavy rain in eastern and western regions of Japan between Tuesday evening and Friday with winds of up to 86kmh (53mph) predicted in Tokai and Kanto regions from Thursday.

Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and associated disruptions are possible in the coming days

Context

The typhoon season lasts from May to October, whilst most storm systems form between July and September. In general, storms can bring heavy downpours and strong winds as well as trigger storm surges which threaten human population and infrastructure. Secondary effects include riverine floods and landslides, both of which can result in human casualties and mass evacuations, as well as travel and service disruptions. Although storm systems usually affect southern Japan, other parts of the country are also vulnerable to these hazards.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.