Severe Tropical Storm Ampil (typhoon No. 7 of the season, according to Japanese nomenclature) is forecast to approach the remote Ogasawara island chain between Wednesday afternoon and evening.
The Meteorological Agency predicts that the typhoon will continue to gain strength and move towards eastern Japan, where the Kanto Koshin region, which includes Tokyo, is located, as well as the north of the country.
According to the direction, Ampil is moving slowly northeastward over the sea south of Japan with a central atmospheric pressure of 975 hectopascals and maximum sustained winds of 108 km/h (67 mph) near its eye. Gusts could instantly reach up to 162 km/h (100 mph).
Heavy thunderstorms are forecast for the Ogasawara Islands, where maximum rainfall could reach 120 mm over a 24-hour period through Thursday morning.
Weather authorities are warning that high waves are possible and are urging people to be careful of landslides.
The typhoon is forecast to approach the Izu Islands on Thursday as it gains strength and move closer to eastern and northern Japan between Friday and Saturday. The Kanto Koshin region could be affected.
Authorities also warn that eastern Japan and other regions could be subject to extremely stormy conditions, depending on the typhoon’s path.
People are urged to prepare in advance and stay up to date with the latest information.
