JAPAN - Tropical Storm Nangka has made landfall on Japans west coast on late 16 July. The Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMP) has issued warnings for heavy rain and strong winds as the storm moves through the island of Shikoku. Although the storm is reported to be moving slowly, authorities in the Kochi prefecture of the island have ordered the evacuation of over 4,000 residents. Travel disruptions including flight and rail service cancellations and suspensions have been reported in most of west Japan on 16 July. West Japan Railway's Okayama office has suspended all non-rapid rail services as of 21:00 local time. Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines have cancelled all flights connecting Tokyo and Shikoku, while Peach Aviation has cancelled flights departing from Kansai International Airport in the Osaka prefecture. Furthermore, parts of the highways west of Tokyo have been closed due to high tides and heavy rain. Strong winds and heavy rains are expected to continue in Shikoku and neighboring parts of Kyushu and southern Honshu over the next 24 hours at least.

There is a significant threat of rain induced localized flooding in low-lying areas and landslides in elevated regions. Strong winds, coastal storm surges and adverse maritime conditions are also anticipated. In addition to ferry service disruptions, air and road transport services may continue to be affected. Power supply and communication disruptions should also be anticipated.