Hundreds of thousands of people in Japan have been urged to evacuate as Typhoon Ampil, now a powerful storm equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane, approaches the east coast near Tokyo. With wind speeds reaching up to 212 kilometers per hour (131 mph), the typhoon is expected to impact the region late Friday, bringing severe weather conditions including heavy rain, flooding, and potentially destructive winds.
Evacuation Advisories and Power Outages
As of Friday, local authorities issued evacuation advisories to over 404,000 people across multiple cities, including Mobara and Asahi near Tokyo, and Iwaki in Fukushima Prefecture. Residents, especially the elderly, disabled, and those in high-risk areas, have been strongly advised to seek safer locations. Yokohama, south of Tokyo, has also been placed on alert, with all residents encouraged to prepare for potential evacuation.
By Friday afternoon, the storm’s effects were already being felt, with more than 2,000 households losing power. TEPCO, the region’s electricity provider, is closely monitoring the situation as the storm intensifies.
Disruptions to Travel
Typhoon Ampil’s approach has led to significant disruptions in Japan’s transportation networks. Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways, two of the country’s largest carriers, canceled approximately 500 flights, particularly affecting Haneda and Narita airports, which serve the capital. Additionally, six lines of Japan’s bullet train network have suspended services between certain stations, including the crucial Tokaido line, which connects Tokyo with Osaka. Travelers are being warned to expect major delays during this peak summer travel season.
Meteorological Warnings and Potential Impact
The Japan Meteorological Agency and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center have cautioned that northern and eastern parts of Japan, including Tokyo, could experience violent winds, rough seas, and heavy rainfall. The storm’s center is projected to stay slightly offshore as it moves northeast, which could minimize its impact. However, a shift in the storm’s trajectory closer to the coast could result in much more severe conditions, including possible landfall.
If the typhoon’s path remains offshore, its effects might be limited to strong winds and rain in some areas. Regardless, the authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, as the storm is expected to weaken by Saturday morning when it moves into cooler waters.
Typhoon Ampil’s rapid intensification and approach have put Japan on high alert, with both government officials and citizens bracing for what could be a significant weather event. As the situation develops, further advisories and updates are expected from meteorological agencies and local authorities.
