Japan: Typhoon Jebi strengthens to Category 5-equivalent August 31 /update 1

Event

Typhoon Jebi dramatically strengthened to the equivalent of a Category 5 hurricane on Friday, August 31, as it moved across the western Pacific. As of 09:00 (Tokyo time), the typhoon is located 500 km (310 mi) north of Guam and producing sustained winds of 267 km/h (167 mph) with gusts up to 324 km/h (201 mph). Jebi is expected to increase in strength over the course of Friday and Saturday morning, September 1, before weakening just before it hits land. Current projections have the storm making landfall between Kyoto and Tokyo and curving north-northeast through Honshu. The eye is estimated to make landfall on Tuesday, September 4, though the effects of the storm will be felt on Honshu before it hits land. Heavy rain, damaging winds, flooding, and high surf are expected.

Context

This is the 21st typhoon of the year and the fourth storm to affect Japan since mid-August. Tropical cyclones and typhoons are common in the west Pacific from June through November.

Advice

Individuals present in the abovementioned regions are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation and power disruptions, obey instructions issued by the local authorities, and avoid flood-prone areas until the situation stabilizes. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.