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02 Oct 2019 | 07:49 AM UTC

Japan: Severe weather warnings issued ahead of Severe Tropical Storm Mitag October 2-3 /update 1

Severe weather warnings issued ahead of passage of Severe Tropical Storm Mitag between October 2-3; heavy rain, strong winds, mudslides, and transport disruptions expected in southwestern Japan

Warning

Event

The Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued storm warnings for Nagasaki prefecture ahead of the passage of Severe Tropical Storm Mitag from Wednesday, October 2, through Thursday, October 3. Mitag is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, storm surge, and possibly mudslides to southwestern Japan, before reaching the Sea of Japan and weakening to a tropical depression in the afternoon (local time) on Thursday. Transport disruptions, including to ferry, flight, and train services, as well as business disruptions are expected in the affected areas in the coming days.

As of 15:45 on Wednesday, Mitag is located at approximately 33.3°N 124.7°E (map here) and is moving north-northeast at 30 km (19 mph). The storm has maximum wind speeds of 90 kph (56 mph).

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.