Typhoon Dujuan Nears Japan as More Than 1.6 Million Residents Urged to Evacuate
TOKYO: Japan remained on high alert Monday as Typhoon Dujuan approached the country’s eastern coast, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding and landslides.
More than 1.6 million residents in and around Tokyo were urged to evacuate as authorities prepared for worsening weather conditions. The storm was moving northeastward along Japan’s Pacific coast, with the centre expected to remain offshore.
Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Expected
Dujuan was producing winds of around 144 kilometres per hour as it approached the Tokyo area. Japan’s Meteorological Agency warned that rainfall could become exceptionally heavy, particularly across the Kanto region and nearby areas.
Some areas had already recorded significant rainfall, while further heavy rain raised concerns about flooding, swollen rivers and landslides. Authorities urged residents in vulnerable locations to remain alert and follow evacuation instructions.
Hundreds of Flights Cancelled
The storm has also disrupted air travel across Japan.
Japan Airlines cancelled 135 flights, while All Nippon Airways cancelled 140 flights, according to reports. Several railway services in Tokyo and neighbouring prefectures were also suspended or disrupted because of the severe weather.
Thousands of households also experienced power outages as strong winds and heavy rain affected areas near Tokyo.
Events and Daily Life Disrupted
The weather conditions have affected scheduled events in Japan, including the Tokyo Game Show, whose final day was cancelled.
Some outdoor events and sporting activities were also called off or postponed as authorities assessed the weather conditions. The storm has also affected activities connected with the Asian Games being held in the country.
Storm Expected to Move Northeast
Forecasts indicated that Dujuan would continue moving northeastward along Japan’s coast before gradually weakening over the northwestern Pacific later in the week.
