Post by : Badri Ariffin

Typhoon Dolphin moved across Japan’s southern remote islands on Friday, bringing powerful winds to Okinawa and forcing the closure of Naha Airport. All domestic and international flights operating to and from the airport were cancelled.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, Dolphin was located just north of Okinawa’s main island on Friday afternoon, with maximum winds reaching 144 kph (89 mph).

Three Men Slightly Injured

The storm caused minor injuries to three men in their 70s, according to the Okinawa prefecture.

Two of the men were caught in strong winds, while the third fell from a stool. Authorities said the stool appeared to have been blown by the wind while the man was preparing for the approaching storm.

Naha Airport Closes, Flights Cancelled

Naha Airport on Okinawa Island was closed on Friday as the typhoon moved through the region.

The airport said all domestic and international flights in and out of Naha were cancelled, disrupting air travel to and from Okinawa.

Hundreds Move to Evacuation Centres

The storm also prompted residents to seek shelter in designated evacuation centres.

As of midday Friday, 240 people had moved to evacuation centres across Okinawa, according to the prefecture.

The Japan Meteorological Agency warned that Okinawa could continue to experience strong winds, heavy rain and high waves through Sunday. Residents were urged to remain indoors for safety.

Typhoon Dolphin Expected to Affect Kyushu

Typhoon Dolphin is also expected to affect parts of Kyushu, Japan’s southern main island.

Residents whose homes were damaged by last week’s deadly earthquake were putting blue tarps over roofs and walls to help protect their properties from further water damage as the typhoon approached.

Storm Expected to Weaken Before China Landfall

The Japan Meteorological Agency expects Dolphin to weaken over the weekend as it moves toward China’s eastern coast.

The storm is forecast to make landfall on Monday morning.

#Global News #Japan News #Global Updates #World News