Typhoon Noru is tracking northwestward in the western Pacific Ocean. As of 6pm on August 3, the system's center of circulation was approximately 409 km (305 miles) south-southeast of Kagoshima, Japan. Models indicate that the system will turn sharply northward and begin tracking northeastward as it nears Japan's northern Ryukyu Islands on August 5. Though Noru has weakened from its peak strength, meteorologists predict the typhoon will begin to strengthen again between August 4 and 5, before weakening on approach to Kyushu Island. Noru is forecast to weaken further after tracking northeastward across Kyushu and northwestern Honshu, before entering the Sea of Japan (East Sea). Despite the change in forecast, Noru is still expected to impact the Korea Strait and southeastern South Korea.
Noru is likely to have the greatest impact on Japan's northern Ryukyu Islands, Kyushu, and northwestern Honshu. The northern Ryukyu Islands will experience powerful wind gusts, while rainfall accumulations of 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) are possible. The heaviest rain will occur in areas along the southern edge of the storm, increasing the chance for flooding in the archipelago. Strong storm surge will also affect the area, especially southern and eastern coastlines, and may prompt coastal flooding. Meteorologists predict that southeastern South Korea and Japan's Kyushu and southwestern Honshu islands will experience winds up to 195 kph (120 mph), with coastal areas likely to be hardest hit. Localized flooding is possible, especially in Kyushu and southwestern Honshu, Japan, and Gyeongsangnam and Gyeongsangbuk provinces of South Korea.
Japan
Authorities will likely restrict maritime operations in waters east of the northern Ryukyu Islands as the storm approaches. Ferries connecting the Ryukyu Islands with Kyushu and Honshu will probably be suspended, as well. Flight disruptions are likely at airports in the northern Ryukyu Islands; some disruptions are also possible at Naha Airport (OKA) in Okinawa. Significant transport and business disruptions will occur on Kyushu and western Honshu as the storm passes into the Sea of Japan. Flight delays and cancellations are likely at airports in Kyushu and western and central Honshu, including Nagasaki (NGS), Fukuoka (FUK), Kagoshima (KOJ), Hiroshima (HIJ), Kansai (KIX), Itami (ITM), and Chubu Centrair (NGO). Heavy rainfall and strong winds will also prompt disruptions to Shinkansen and local rail services, especially in Kyushu and western Honshu; storm conditions will probably prompt trains to travel at slower speeds if operations are not fully suspended in other areas of Japan. Localized road closures might occur; authorities will probably urge motorists to remain off the streets until the storm passes. Power outages and telecommunications disruptions are also possible, especially in northern Kyushu and western Honshu.
South Korea
In South Korea, disruptions are likely at Jeju International Airport (CJU) on August 6. Disruptions are possible at other airports in the region, including Ulsan Airport (USN), Busan's Gimhae International Airport (PUS), and Pohang Airport (KPO). High waves and/or winds will likely trigger suspensions to ferry service between Japan and South Korea; port facilities will also probably close as the storm approaches. Rainfall associated with the system is likely to affect much of southern South Korea. Flash flooding could occur, including in major urban areas such as Gwangju, Busan, Ulsan, and Pohang. Flooding and/or landslides could block roads and rail track, leading to localized ground transport disruptions. Although less likely, some delays could occur on Korean Railroad's Gyeongbu Line. Power outages are also possible.
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