Authorities in Japan have issued a rare emergency evacuation alert as Typhoon Dujuan tracks close to the Tokyo metropolitan area, forcing evacuations and raising concerns about severe weather impacts. Officials said more than 1.9 million people are under evacuation orders across regions battered by the storm.
The evacuation alert — described by officials as uncommon for the capital region — came as Dujuan approached, prompting local governments to urge residents in vulnerable areas to seek shelter or move to higher ground. The move reflects authorities' efforts to reduce the risk posed by high winds, heavy rain and possible flooding associated with the typhoon.
Japan’s meteorological and disaster management agencies regularly monitor tropical storms and issue advisories and evacuation directives when communities face heightened danger. In this case, the issuing of a rare alert for Tokyo underscores the perceived threat from Dujuan as it moves near the densely populated capital and surrounding prefectures.
Officials warned that those under evacuation orders should follow local instructions and prepare for potential disruptions. Emergency services and municipal authorities are coordinating responses and communicating updates to residents as the situation develops.
Background: Japan experiences typhoons regularly during the season and maintains well-established early-warning systems and preparedness procedures. Nonetheless, the close approach of a major storm to the Tokyo area typically prompts heightened caution given the concentration of population and infrastructure.