As Japan braces for Typhoon Hagibis to arrive, what precautions should you take to prepare?
Download ‘Safety Tips’ App:
The Japanese government is urging foreign visitors to download is ‘Safety Tips’ app and to keep abreast of the situation by following the official Japan Safe Travel Twitter Account
Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/japansafetravel?lang=en
Official App: https://www.jnto.go.jp/safety-tips/eng/app.html
Will my phone work?
All Japan’s telecom operators are on standby for possible service disruptions and have plans to deploy mobile base stations in the event their base stations are damaged by water, etc. Just in case have an old-fashioned book as a back-up plan.
Will the electricity work?
When typhoon Faxai hit Chiba prefecture last month certain areas were left without power for weeks. In Tokyo TEPCO power company have urged people to take steps to prevent blackouts citing concerns plastic sheets covering damaged roofs from the previous typhoon getting caught in electric cables. Just in case, we recommend you have a stock of candles as back-up. Ensure your phone is fully charged and if you do not own a back-up power bank, now would be the time to purchase one.
Will the water stop?
Again, nobody knows for sure. It’s best to stock up with water supplies and fill your bathtub for washing and flushing the toilet. Don’t forget to stock up on toilet paper too!
Will the trains stop?
Shinkansen services have already cancelled some of their weekend services with more expected. Both JR East & JR West are updating information on a regular basis
JR East: https://traininfo.jreast.co.jp/train_info/e/kanto.aspx
JR West: https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/
Will they shut down the airport?
All local flights have been grounded, however international flights will likely still land before the storm hits. The airport will remain open, though you will potentially have to set up camp there, according to train and subway schedules and potential shut downs. Be prepared.
Will I still be able to pick up my SIM?
If you are at the airport, it is likely that you will be able to pick up you SIM. However, all downtown locations are subject to the business proprietors, thus we cannot give a definitive answer.
We have been given updated opening hours for some of hour collection points. Of course, this information is subject to change. The below is correct as of 18:00 Japan time, October 11th.
Where to stock up?
You can buy items at your local supermarkets, of course. If you would like to buy in bulk, we would recommend Gyomu Super or Costco Wholesale (you will need a membership for Costco). Be sure not to panic, as there will likely be plenty to go around. Other places that would be helpful are Pharmacies and Convenience Stores.
A Quick List of What To Do
- Stay indoors, it is in everyone’s best interest to stay inside.
- Stock up on food, drink, and light sources (candles, flashlights, batteries, etc.) in advance
- Take everything indoors
- Expect power outages
- Confirm your nearest evacuation shelter in case of emergency
Above all, stay safe and well!
