ALBAWABA - Japanese trains and airlines are halting services as Typhoon Ampil intensifies in the western Pacific, with the storm set to hit on Friday.
According to the most recent Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) advisory, Typhoon Ampil has sustained winds of 140 kph as of early Thursday local time.
It's expected to intensify more in the following 36 hours since the storm is traveling over the warm ocean, which means more moisture in the air to feed the typhoon. By Friday evening, when it approaches Japan southeast of Tokyo, it may reach the strength of a Category 3 hurricane.
According to NHK, Japanese meteorologists have warned that parts of northern and eastern Japan may see severe gusts, stormy waves, heavy rain, flooding, landslides, and overflowing rivers. People are encouraged to be cautious and prepared.
According to JTWC and the Japan Meteorological Agency, the storm's core will continue somewhat offshore as it turns northeast and travels away from Japan. If it remains offshore and barely touches the coast, it might have a little impact on Japan, bringing rain and wind to certain regions, including Tokyo.
Rail transport has also been affected. Six lines on the Japanese bullet train network are stopping services between specific stations and warning of substantial delays on Friday, including the key Tokaido line that connects Tokyo and Osaka.
