Typhoon Chan-hom approaches Japan’s Kanto region

Typhoon Chan-hom, also designated as Typhoon No. 15, is on a direct path toward Japan's Kanto region, with its closest approach expected on the afternoon of August 11. The typhoon's trajectory brings it near the Tokyo metropolitan area, prompting widespread alerts.

As of 9 a.m. Japan time, the typhoon was located approximately 260 km east of Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture. It is moving west-northwest at about 30 km/h, with a central atmospheric pressure of 985 hectopascals. Maximum sustained winds are recorded at 83 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 126 km/h.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) forecasts extremely unstable atmospheric conditions due to the combination of warm, moist air flowing into eastern Japan and high-altitude cold air. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected across a wide area of eastern Japan on August 11, with localized downpours possible. Strong to very strong winds are also anticipated, and coastal areas along the Pacific may experience rough seas with swells.

Authorities are urging residents in the Tohoku and Kanto-Koshin regions to remain on high alert. The JMA warns of potential landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and the risk of rivers overflowing their banks. The typhoon is expected to weaken into a tropical depression by August 12 after traversing Honshu and moving into the Sea of Japan.

Forecasters note that the typhoon's direct approach from the east is highly unusual. If it makes landfall in Fukushima or Ibaraki prefectures, it would mark the first such occurrence since records began in 1951.