Strong winds from Typhoon Hinnamnor, which is heading towards the Okinawan islands in southern Japan, have forced authorities to issue evacuation orders and airlines to cancel flights. Residents of the cities of Miyakojima and Ishigaki were advised to leave their homes before the winds become even stronger. According to the estimates made by the authorities, more than 100 people were evacuated.
All Nippon Airways canceled 44 flights on Saturday and another 22 flights canceled on Sunday, Japan Airlines canceled 56 flights and Skymark Airlines canceled 14 flights for Saturday and Sunday. About 3200 passengers were affected.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the storm has maximum sustained winds of approximately 150 km/h, with gusts of up to 200 km/h. Speeds are expected to increase even more over the weekend.
Authorities in Taiwan also issued a warning on Saturday, with the tourist island of Jeju expected to be hit by the typhoon on Monday and Tuesday. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the strongest typhoon in the history of Korea has been predicted to hit the state in the coming days.