Super Typhoon Nanmadol (台風14号) continues to track towards Okinawa Prefecture and the greater Kyushu. After bringing drenching rains and high winds to the Kyushu area, Super Typhoon Nanmadol will turn east to bring heavy rains to the Kansai area before heading towards eastern Japan. According to Japanese officials, the Special Typhoon Warning for Super Typhoon Nanmadol is the first time a special typhoon warning has been issued outside of the Okinawa area. News media indicates that Super Typhoon Nanmadol has the potential to become one of the largest storms to hit Japan in the last 70 years.
Japan’s weather officials warn that the storm may hit Japan’s southwestern islands with violent winds and extremely heavy rains. Officials warn of powerful gusts, high waves, mudslides, and flooding in low-lying areas. Heavy rains are expected to begin late Saturday night and continue through next week.
Transportation disruptions and flight cancellations are likely. JR Kyushu will gradually suspend limited express services on the afternoon and evening of September 17, including “Kirishima” running between Miyazaki and Kagoshima-Chuo, and reduce the number of services on conventional lines as well. The Kyushu Shinkansen will operate normally on September 17, but on September 18 service will be suspended all day between Kumamoto and Kagoshima-Chuo, and from around noon between Hakata and Kumamoto.
(Map and Projected Path as of 2022-SEP-17)
Actions to Take:
U.S. citizens in Okinawa Prefecture and the Kyushu area are encouraged to immediately monitor local news media and follow guidance of prefectural government officials. As Super Typhoon Nanmadol turns east, residents in central and eastern Japan should remain aware. Updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency and the U.S. Navy Joint Typhoon Warning Center can be found online.
If evacuating, evacuees are encouraged to adhere to COVID-19 mitigation advice.
U.S. Embassy and Consulate Operations:
At this time, operations at the U.S. Embassy and consulates across Japan remain unaffected, however offices are closed for routine services on Monday, September 19, 2022 in recognition of Japan’s Respect for the Aged Day.
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Telephone: 098-876-4211
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