Typhoon Wipha is now being pulled northward toward Japan by a dip in the jet stream that is moving across eastern Asia. The center of Wipha is forecast to move near or just east of Tokyo, the capital, Wednesday morning local time (late Tuesday U.S. time). Given the increased upper-level winds from the approaching jet stream dip, it's expected that Wipha will continue to weaken as it accelerates northeastward near eastern Japan. The current forecast calls for Wipha to be the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane as it makes its closest approach to Japan. Wipha will also be transitioning to a non-tropical system as it interacts with a cold front.
In addition to strong winds and pounding surf, torrential rainfall can be expected across eastern Japan. The heavy rainfall will likely result in some flooding. The typhoon peaked in intensity as the equivalent of a Category 4 hurricane this past weekend, but has since weakened significantly.
Nevertheless, Wipha is expected to brush past the southern coast of Japan, packing wind speeds near 60 mph (75 mph closer to the storm's center). Downed trees and power lines will combine with heavy rain to create hazardous conditions for the island nation.
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