Typhoon Ampil to Disrupt Japan Travel

Typhoon Ampil is poised to impact eastern Japan on August 16 and 17 with strong winds and heavy rain, equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued severe warnings for widespread damage, including high waves, landslides, and flooding, particularly in the Kanto, Tokai, and Tohoku regions. Major transportation disruptions are anticipated, with suspended Shinkansen services and over 500 flight cancellations from Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports. Ampil's maximum sustained winds are forecasted to reach 144 kph, with gusts up to 216 kph. The storm, categorized as 'very strong' by the JMA, will not make landfall but will pass closely enough to cause significant disruptions during the peak holiday travel period.