Typhoon No.13, a top‑class storm, nears Japan and drives extreme heat

Japan’s Meteorological Agency reports that Typhoon No.13 has maintained “mauve‑class” strength with a central pressure of 910 hPa and maximum sustained winds of 55 m/s, rising to 905 hPa and 60 m/s in the next day. The system is moving west‑north‑west toward the Ogasawara Islands and may approach Okinawa, with a possible passage near South Bird Island. Forecast models show a continued threat of strong winds and heavy rain as the typhoon heads into the southern Japanese seas.

The storm is also amplifying a heat wave: the far‑eastern Niigata area is experiencing a Foehn‑type effect, while temperatures across western and eastern Japan remain around 39‑40 °C. Nara’s Kamikura village recorded 39.6 °C on July 31. Authorities advise limiting outdoor activities, staying hydrated, and using sun protection. In Fukushima’s Kaneyama town a level‑4 landslide‑danger warning has been issued, urging residents near slopes to evacuate if needed.

Meteorologists stress the need for frequent updates, noting that the storm’s track can shift with the position of the surrounding high‑pressure ridge.