Post by : Badri Ariffin

Hundreds of thousands of people in southwestern Japan were ordered to evacuate on Friday, Aug. 7, as Typhoon Dolphin moved slowly toward the region, bringing the threat of violent winds, heavy rainfall and dangerous high waves. The severe weather also disrupted travel, with more than 500 flights cancelled across affected areas.

Nearly 260,000 Residents Ordered to Evacuate

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, Typhoon Dolphin was classified as a Category 1 storm with maximum sustained winds of 144 km/h and wind gusts reaching 198 km/h. The typhoon was moving near a chain of islands located between the Kyushu region and Okinawa prefecture.

Authorities issued evacuation orders for nearly 260,000 residents living in Kagoshima and Okinawa prefectures as weather conditions continued to worsen.

Strong Winds and Heavy Rain Raise Safety Concerns

Weather officials warned that Typhoon Dolphin was expected to maintain its strength as it approached Okinawa prefecture. The agency said powerful winds could cause serious damage to buildings, with some structures at risk of collapsing.

Forecasters also warned that a linear rain band, a narrow area of intense rainfall and thunderstorms, could develop. Such conditions could significantly increase the risk of flooding in affected areas.

More Than 500 Flights Cancelled, Toyota Halts Factory Operations

The approaching typhoon caused major travel disruptions across southwestern Japan. More than 500 flights were cancelled on Friday due to dangerous weather conditions.

The storm also affected industrial operations, with Toyota suspending work at nine factories on Friday as a precaution.

Kumamoto Still Recovering From Last Week's Earthquake

Typhoon Dolphin was also bringing strong winds across much of Kyushu, including Kumamoto prefecture, which is still recovering from the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck the region last week.

Around 6,700 people in Kumamoto remain in evacuation centres after many homes collapsed during the earthquake.

Heatstroke Warning Remains in Effect

Alongside the typhoon warnings, the Japan Meteorological Agency also cautioned residents about the risk of heatstroke, with temperatures expected to reach 36°C in some areas despite the storm.

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