Typhoon Roke to strafe Japanese mainland

September 19, 2011 – JAPAN – Typhoon Roke is forecast to strike Japan at about 19:00 GMT on 20 September. Data supplied by theUS Navy and Air Force Joint Typhoon Warning Center suggest that the point of landfall will benear33.1 N,135.2 E.Roke is expected to bring 1-minute maximum sustained winds to the region of around120 km/h (74 mph).Wind gusts in the area maybe considerably higher. According to the Saffir-Simpson damage scale the potential property damage and flooding from a storm of Roke’s strength (category 1) at landfall includes:

 •Storm surge generally 1.2-1.5 metres (4-5 feet) above normal.

•No real damage to building structures.

•Damage primarily to unanchored mobile homes, shrubbery, and trees.

•Some damage to poorly constructed signs.

•Some coastal road flooding and minor pier damage.

There is also the potential for flooding further inland due to heavy rain. The information above is provided for guidance only and should not be used to make life or death decisions or decisions relating to property. Anyone in the region who is concerned for their personal safety or property should contact their official national weather agency or warning centre for advice. –Alert Net