Preparing for a Super Typhoon

*This post was originally posted on September 30, 2019.

Looks like we aren’t the only ones gearing up for a three-day weekend. Super typhoon Hagibis could potentially make landfall in Japan this weekend. As of Thursday (Oct. 9), the Japan Meteorological Agency says Hagibis is approaching the Ogasawara Islands with winds gusting up to 270 kilometers per hour, and may make landfall on eastern and western Japan over the weekend. Currently, the storm is moving at a wind speed of 198 kilometers per hour and heavy torrential rain is expected on the eastern coast from Friday onwards.

Here are several ways to make sure you stay safe during a typhoon.

Minimizing External Damage to Your House

Shut all windows and shutters, secure items that might fall or be blown away and clean out all areas with poor drainage to avoid flooding. Watch for possible flooding in the basement. Avoid elevators if you need to go downstairs. Affix tape over glass to prevent shattering.

Prepare a Three-Day Emergency Bag

It’s generally estimated to take 72 hours (three days) or more for outside help to arrive after a major disaster. In Japan, the government encourages having enough supplies for one week or more if possible. Have an emergency kit ready in case you face a power outage.

• Backpack
• Flashlight
• First-aid kit
• Paper copies of your driving license, alien registration card, insurance, bank book, hanko, paper copy of important phone numbers, map of your local area, cash (notes and small change for pay phones)
• Water
• Emergency food / canned food
• Outer wear
• Inner wear
• Extra batteries
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Cell phone with car chargers and a backup battery
• Tool kit
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers
• Lighter and candles
• Water filter
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Personal hygiene items
• Writing materials
• If you have a baby or young children, be sure to pack extra diapers and milk formula

Stay Informed with Storm and Flood Updates

Stay informed via television, radio and internet, and listen to the latest weather warnings, alarms and evacuation advisories. Anticipate airline and train cancellations.

Evacuate if Needed

Know the closest evacuation locations before the typhoon arrives, and if you receive an evacuation advisory or you feel you are in immediate danger, check the advised evacuation method and locations in your area and evacuate immediately.

Do Not Approach Dangerous Places

This may seem like a no-brainer but we’re sure there are surfers out there secretly hoping to catch a few typhoon swells. Do not approach high-risk zones such as beaches and coastal areas, places where the riverbed is high and areas prone to floods and landslides. Stay away from streets and roads covered with water due to broken water pipes, flooded rivers, or any other conditions caused by heavy rain. Avoid downed power lines; electric facilities such as power switchboards and power lines could cause not only a power outage but also electric shock.

Helpful Links

Japan Safe Travel
Japan Meteorological Agency
Rugby World Cup Travel Guide