The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reminded Filipinos in Japan to take caution as Typhoon Jebi, the strongest storm to hit the country in 25 years, makes landfall on Tuesday, September 4.
In a statement, DFA advised the over 280,000 members of the Filipino community in Japan to keep themselves updated through the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and the local authorities in their respective areas for possible evacuation.
DFA assured they are in continuous coordination with the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo and the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka to ensure the safety of Filipino communities there.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo also issued a warning especially to those living in the Shikoku and Kinki regions as well as Tohoku, Tokai, and Hokuriku regions.
“Tayong lahat ay maghanda at maging alerto, at palaging makinig sa mga ulat at mgababala ng local o national government,” the Embassy advised.
The embassy said Filipinos who need help may contact the following agencies.
– Philippine Embassy, Tokyo: 080-4928-7979
– Philippine Consulate General, Osaka: 080-4036-7984
– Philippine Consulate General, Okinawa: 098-892-5486
Strongest typhoon in 25 years
Typhoon Jebi is considered as the strongest typhoon to hit Japan in 25 years.
As of 5 p.m. (Manila time), one casualty was recorded while five others sustained injuries in the western portion of the country, reported Kyodo News.
The typhoon travelled through southern part of Tokushima Prefecture and later on passed Kobe and moved into the Sea of Japan, as per JMA .
The typhoon travels at a speed of 65 kilometers per hour in the sea with winds of up to 180 kph. Some areas, including Kansai airport, experienced wind gusts with speed of up to 209 kph.
NOTE: Photo featured in the article was taken from Kyodo News
