Japanese airlines canceled more than 100 flights on Friday as two tropical storms churn toward the archipelago. Authorities advised evacuations in some areas, citing dangers of flooding and landslides.
The first system, severe tropical storm Mekkhala — downgraded from a typhoon — packed gusts up to 144 km/h (89 mph). Heavy rain already pounded parts of southern and western Japan as of Friday.
Forecasters expected Mekkhala to skirt the islands of Kyushu and Shikoku. The second storm, still unnamed, was tracking similarly, compounding risks for the region.
Residents in vulnerable zones face potential disruptions beyond travel, with local governments urging preparedness for rising water and soil instability. No major injuries have been reported yet.
Experts caution that storm tracks could shift, altering impact zones. Rapid intensification remains a concern as warm waters fuel both systems.