Hundreds of flights canceled as typhoon bears down on Okinawa

An approaching typhoon has forced the cancellation of hundreds of flights in and out of Okinawa Prefecture, as Japan’s holiday period draws to a close.

ANA Holdings and Japan Airlines canceled a total of 279 flights affecting 41,688 people due to storm Saudel, which is expected to bring strong winds and high seas to the area from Tuesday night to Wednesday morning.

Okinawa, which hosts several U.S. military bases alongside its popular beach resorts, attracts more than 10 million visitors a year.

ANA said all of its flights to and from the airport in Naha will be canceled on Wednesday. Some ferry services are also canceled.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said winds may reach speeds of up to 40 meters per second. After crossing Okinawa Prefecture, the storm is expected to move westwards, hitting the coast of China later in the week.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged the public to pay close attention to weather forecasts and evacuation information. “If you sense the slightest danger, don’t hesitate to take action to protect your lives,” she said in a post on X.