Japan prepares for Typhoon Hagibis

Described by BBC weather presenter Simon King, as ‘one of the most powerful cyclones this year’ Hagibis is due to make landfall in mainland Japan on Saturday 12 October 2019, bringing high winds and potential flooding.

Hagibis will be classified as a super-typhoon, meaning sustained winds predicted of up to 160mph. These weather conditions are likely to cause severe travel delays locally and flight cancellations over the weekend.

Parts of Japan are still recovering from typhoon Faxai, which hit in late September causing widespread damage to homes and business. Some areas, just outside of Tokyo are still without power and urgent steps are being taken to secure homes.

Japan is in the midst of hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup, and this morning officials have taken the difficult decision to cancel some matches, including the England vs France game, which was due to take place on Saturday morning. Please check Rugby World Cup for full and up to date information about the matches.

While the storm is currently classified as ‘Violent’ by the Japanese Metrological Agency, the it’s predicted to lose some potency before it hits mainland Japan, and quickly lose its super-typhoon status. With this in mind, there are hopes that some home nation matches may still go ahead this weekend.

If you’re due to travel to Japan over the coming days, we advise you to check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice before travelling and with your tour operator, before leaving for the airport.

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