Super typhoon is heading to Japan, Rugby World Cup matches under threat
ABTA delegates staying on in Japan after this week’s convention in Tokyo risk being caught in a violent typhoon that is heading towards the main island.
Typhoon Hagibis is due to hit Japan this weekend, bringing torrential rain and gusts of wind up to 149mph.
It is likely to disrupt the Rugby World Cup matches taking place on Saturday.
The super-typhoon is sweeping across the Pacific Ocean and Philippine Sea and while it’s not yet certain where the eye of the storm will hit, there are questions being asked about which World Cup matches will be safe to play.
On Saturday, matches are due to be held between Ireland and Samoa in Fukuoka (above) and between Italy and New Zealand in Toyota.
Both cities, and the capital Tokyo, could be hit by the typhoon. However, its large size means that areas not facing a direct hit could still be significantly impacted.
Delegates due to fly back over the weekend have been told by ANA that their flgihts might be affected.
A spokeswoman for the Japan National Tourist Office said it was monitoring the weather closely and would change post-Convention itineraries if necessary.
World Cup organisers say they are monitoring the storm. "The typhoon is tracking in a north-westerly direction and could bring high winds and heavy rain to southern Japan on 12 and 13 October," World Rugby said.
"While it is too early to determine the exact trajectory and impact, if any, of the typhoon at this early stage, as per previous typhoon warnings, we have a robust contingency programme in place in the event adverse weather looks likely to impact fixtures.
"We will continue to closely monitor this developing situation in partnership with our weather information experts, local authorities, transport providers and the teams, and will provide a further update tomorrow. Fans are advised to monitor official Rugby World Cup channels for any updates."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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