Japan: Typhoon Jebi tracking northward toward Kanto Region in eastern Honshu as of early Oct. 1 /update 2

Typhoon Jebi is tracking northward across the North Pacific Ocean toward Japan early Oct. 1. As of 12:00 JST, the system's center of circulation was approximately 343 km (213 miles) southeast of Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture.

Forecast models indicate that the weather system will maintain its strength as it tracks north-northeastward and makes a close approach to the southeastern Kanto Region, Japan, the afternoon of Oct. 1 before weakening into a tropical storm as it tracks roughly parallel to the coast of eastern Honshu, Japan through Oct. 1 and the eastern coast of Hokkaido Prefecture through early Oct. 2. Jebi is likely to weaken further as it continues northeastward roughly parallel to the Kuril Islands through late Oct. 2. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued a bulletin regarding the storm system, warning that Jebi will track east of the Izu Islands and Kanto Region Oct. 1. Residents should be vigilant for strong winds and high waves of up to 5 meters (16 feet) with swells.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible.

Inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary port closures are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.