TOKYO, Sept. 20 (Xinhua) -- A large and powerful typhoon is expected to approach the Pacific coastal areas of eastern Japan, including Tokyo, with strong intensity from Monday through Tuesday, prompting the country's weather agency to urge residents to remain on high alert for torrential rain and violent winds, local media reported Sunday.
As of 9 a.m. local time on Sunday, Typhoon Dujuan, the 25th typhoon of the year, was moving northwest over the sea south of Japan at a speed of 10 km per hour (kph), packing maximum sustained winds of 126 kph near its center and maximum gusts of 180 kph, public broadcaster NHK reported, citing the Japan Meteorological Agency.
The typhoon could make landfall on the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture, east of Tokyo, on Monday and is expected to bring torrential rain, violent winds and high waves, increasing the risks of flooding in low-lying areas.
The typhoon's approach coincides with a five-day holiday period in Japan. Residents are urged to check the latest weather information and take precautions, including considering rescheduling plans during extreme weather. People in urban areas are advised to watch out for possible flooding on roads and in underground facilities. ■