Typhoon Maysak Carries Potential for 'Major Disaster' in Japan

A powerful typhoon approached the southern Japanese prefecture of Okinawa late on Monday, August 31.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said on Monday that Typhoon Maysak could carry a threatening storm surge, heavy rain, and intense winds, potentially causing a “major disaster” in Okinawa.

Typhoon Maysak was forecast to affect Japan overnight Monday into Tuesday and the Korean peninsula from Tuesday into Wednesday.

US Air Base Kadena, in Okinawa, increased its readiness level, warning on Monday evening of sustained winds already upwards of 40mph.

The typhoon was expected to pass southwest of the Kadena Air Base early on Tuesday, according to the US military. Sustained winds of 138 mph or more could be expected by 9 am, with gusts upwards of 167 mph, according to reports.

As of Monday evening, the high winds from Maysak had already caused damage to buildings in Okinawa.

This footage shows strong wind and rain in Okinawa late on the afternoon of August 21. Credit: D’Nache Wright via Storyful