Typhoon Chanthu Nears Japan on Rare Path, Expected to Hit Kanto Today

Typhoon Chanthu is on a rare path toward Japan's Kanto region, with landfall expected by this evening. The storm is poised to unleash strong winds and heavy rainfall across eastern and northeastern Japan.

As of 6 a.m. Japan time on August 11, the typhoon's center was located about 360 kilometers east of Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture. It is moving northwest at 35 kilometers per hour, with a central atmospheric pressure of 985 millibars and maximum sustained winds of 23 meters per second.

The Japan Meteorological Agency predicts Chanthu will make landfall in the Kanto region tonight and then travel westward across the area, bringing wind and rain to the Hokuriku, Kinki, and Chugoku regions. The agency is warning residents to prepare for potential landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, rising river levels, and strong winds.

Officials noted the typhoon's unusual path could lead to stronger-than-expected winds along the Kanto and Tohoku coasts and a rapid increase in wave heights. With many people traveling for the Obon holiday, authorities are advising the public to stay informed about disaster prevention information.

“

The typhoon's path is relatively rare, so coastal areas of Kanto and Tohoku may experience stronger winds than usual, and wave heights could increase in a short period.