Japan Braces For Two Powerful Weather Systems
Two powerful weather systems are bearing down on western Japan from different directions.
Weather officials are warning people on the southwestern island of Kyushu to prepare for a strong typhoon heading their way. At the same time, a severe tropical storm is expected to hit western Japan in the coming days.
Typhoon Maysak has been gathering force, and will likely approach northern Kyushu later on Wednesday.
The island is already being buffeted by strong winds.
People in Kumamoto are bracing for another disaster, after heavy rains killed dozens of people in July.
Farmers are rushing to harvest grapes before the storm arrives.
Meanwhile, weather officials are urging people to prepare for severe tropical storm Haishen, approaching the western part of the country over the Pacific.
The agency warns the storm could bring record rainfall and powerful gusts of wind.
The Japan Coast Guard is searching for a Panamanian-flagged cargo ship that sent a mayday call early on Wednesday.
Typhoon Maysak was approaching the area when contact with the vessel was lost.
The officials say 43 people, mostly Filipino, are on board the ship.
