As Typhoon Ampil intensifies in the western Pacific, Japan is taking precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of the storm, which is expected to make its presence felt on Friday during the peak summer travel season. The typhoon is already causing significant disruptions to transportation, with both rail and air travel severely affected.
As of early Thursday, local time, Typhoon Ampil was packing sustained winds of 140 kph (85 mph), according to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC). This strength classifies it as the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane in the Atlantic. The storm is predicted to gain further strength over the next 36 hours as it moves over warm ocean waters, which provide ample moisture to fuel its growth. By Friday evening, when the storm is expected to approach Japan southeast of Tokyo, it could intensify to the equivalent of a Category 3 hurricane.
In response to the impending storm, major Japanese airlines have already taken action. Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways have canceled approximately 500 flights combined, affecting routes to and from Tokyo’s Haneda and Narita airports. Public broadcaster NHK has reported that these cancellations could cause significant travel disruptions, particularly as many people are traveling during the summer holidays.
The country’s famed bullet train network is also experiencing interruptions. Six lines, including the crucial Tokaido line connecting Tokyo and Osaka, are suspending services between specific stations and warning passengers of potential delays on Friday. These disruptions are expected to impact thousands of travelers relying on the Shinkansen for long-distance travel.
Japanese meteorological officials have issued warnings for parts of northern and eastern Japan, alerting residents to the potential dangers of violent winds, heavy rainfall, rough seas, and the risk of flooding, landslides, and overflowing rivers. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, prepare for possible emergencies, and stay informed about the storm’s progress.
Current forecasts from the JTWC and Japan’s Meteorological Agency suggest that the storm’s center may remain offshore as it turns northeast, possibly sparing Japan from a direct hit. However, even a slight shift in the storm’s trajectory could bring it closer to the coast, increasing the risk of more severe impacts, including potential landfall.
As Typhoon Ampil moves closer to Japan, the situation remains fluid, with the storm expected to weaken by Saturday morning as it moves into cooler waters. However, the exact path and intensity of the typhoon are still uncertain, leaving the country on high alert as it prepares for the worst while hoping for the best.
