The exceptionally strong typhoon "Hagibis" has caused the first damage in Japan and flooded many houses, among other things. In Tokyo's neighboring province of Chiba at least one person was killed when a truck overturned in the squalls.
Four occupants suffered injuries when a residential building was completely destroyed. In many households, the electricity was cut off. The hurricane moved across the Pacific to the Asian island kingdom and is expected to land on Saturday night (local time).
Thousands in central Japanese provinces such as Mie and Kanagawa southwest of Tokyo, the capital of millions, were called to safety on Saturday. In the neighboring province of Shizuoka streets and houses were under water.
Japan fears the worst rains in 61 years
Typhoon "Hagibis" reaches wind speeds of up to 234 kilometers per hour near its center. The cyclone could hit Tokyo and other areas in the east of the country with the worst rains since that typhoon that cost more than 1,200 people in the region in 1958.
Diego Azubel / Epa-Eve / Rex
Typhoon "Hagibis": wind speeds of up to 234 kilometers per hour
"Hagibis" was the dominant theme on Japanese television. Again and again people were warned of the forces of nature and asked to bring themselves to safety. In particular, from coastal stretches, where high waves prevailed, they should stay away.
The authorities warned that houses could collapse in the strong squalls. Some residents tended to cover the roofs of their often lightweight houses with blue plastic tarpaulins, some barricaded the windows with boards.
Formula 1 qualifying moved to Japan Grand Prix on Sunday
Railway operators had early announced traffic restrictions for the weekend in western and eastern Japan, including Tokyo. All Nippon Airways (ANA) canceled all domestic flights and most international flights to and from Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports on Saturday. Japan Airlines (JAL) also decided to cancel most flights on Saturday.
Kyodo / Reuters
Typhoon "Hagibis": Authorities warn the population to move to safety
Many department stores in Tokyo and surrounding area were closed on Saturday. Even companies such as the carmaker Toyota and Honda were the bands in some of their factories rest on the day. The Tokyo government ordered all relevant ministries to take necessary action to deal with the consequences of the typhoon.
Out of concern for the imminent effects of the typhoon, the Formula 1 qualifier for the Japanese Grand Prix will take place on race Sunday. All activities scheduled for Saturday on the Suzuka International Racing Course have been canceled. Two games at the current Rugby World Cup in Japan can not take place. Until Sunday, the typhoon should move north.