Khanun returns to Okinawa

A storm is again approaching Okinawa's main island region and the Amami region of Kagoshima Prefecture in southwestern Japan. Authorities say Severe Tropical Storm Khanun is moving its storm zone to part of the regions through Sunday.

The storm is packing winds of up to 108 kilometers per hour near its center, with peak gusts reaching 162 kilometers per hour. The storm is expected to move east slowly and approach very close to Okinawa and Amami through Sunday.

It will then likely to shift north and approach western Japan early next week or later. The storm is also expected to bring torrential rain and lightning. Rainfall in the 24 hours through noon Sunday could reach up to 300 millimeters in Okinawa and Amami, and 250 millimeters in southern Kyushu.

Weather officials are advising caution against strong gusts, high waves and storm surges, as well as landslides, flooding in low-lying areas and swollen rivers. People are urged to remain vigilant, as the storm is moving slowly and could have a prolonged effect.