Evacuation ordered in northern Japan, flights and trains canceled in Tokyo as a typhoon approaches

Associated Press

TOKYO (AP) — Thousands of people in northern Japan were ordered to evacuate because of risks of flooding and mudslides from a powerful typhoon approaching in the Pacific Ocean. Flights and trains in the Tokyo area were canceled Friday as warnings were issued for strong winds and heavy rainfall from Typhoon Ampil. The storm is forecast to reach waters near Tokyo in the evening and then continue north. It is not expected to make landfall. An evacuation order was sent to more than 320,000 residents of the city of Iwaki in Fukushima prefecture in northern Japan. More than 30 places were offered as safe locations to stay, including school gymnasiums and community centers.