04 Oct 2019 | 01:02 AM UTC
Japan: Mitag downgraded to extratropical cyclone October 3 /update 2
Mitag weakens to an extratropical cyclone on October 3 but is still forecast to bring heavy rain and strong winds to western Japan on October 4-5; flooding, landslides, and transportation disruptions possible
Event
Typhoon Mitag was downgraded to an extratropical cyclone by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) on Thursday, October 3, as it continues to move towards western Japan on Friday, October 4. The storm is forecast to hit the Hokuriku and Tohoku regions on Friday and bring heavy rains and strong winds to the area. High wave and storm warnings are in effect for parts of Fukui, Ishikawa, Toyama, Niigata, and Yamagata prefectures. Winds of up to 126 kph (78 mph) are expected in Hokuriku and Tohoku regions, where waves may reach up to 6 m (20 ft) along the coast. Flash flooding and mudslides are also possible, with rainfall totals of up to 15 cm (6 in) forecast in some regions.
Transport disruptions, including to ferry, flight, and train services, as well as business disruptions are expected in the affected areas over the coming hours and into Saturday, October 5.
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.
