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World Rugby have advised fans to only travel if ‘absolutely necessary’ as superstorm Typhoon Hagibis approaches Tokyo.
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The storm system has already claimed one life. A truck driver (49) was found dead after his vehicle was blown over by the ferocious energy of the storm – the largest of the year so far.
1,600 flights to and from Japan have been canceled as record wind speeds of over 200km an hour pummel coastal areas.
World Rugby state: “Wide areas across eastern, western and northern Japan will be affected by strong winds as well as torrential and sustained heavy rain that bring the risk of floods and landslide. Storm surges are expected across the coast of eastern Japan on Saturday and Sunday.
“According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, this typhoon is anticipated to be the most powerful storm of the year, so be prepared and stay safe.
“Remain indoors, check typhoon-related updates regularly and follow the advice of local authorities including any evacuation orders and ensure you have basic food provisions. Keep travel documents and essential medication with you in case you have to move at short notice and let family and friends in your home country know you are safe.”
“Transport services may be delayed or cancelled before, during and after Typhoon Hagibis. Only travel when absolutely necessary.”
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Pitch inspections are set to go ahead tomorrow following the storm. “We will undertake detailed venue inspections as soon as practically possible after the Typhoon has passed and an update will be published as soon as that process has been undertaken in the morning.
“Our message to fans continues to be stay indoors today, stay safe and monitor official Rugby World Cup social and digital channels.”
England’s group decider against France on Saturday has been cancelled due to the approach of Super Typhoon Hagibis in one of the most extraordinary days in 32 years of World Cup history. Statement with World Cup tournament director Alan Gilpin.
