Typhoon in Japan
Data source : http://hp.otenki.com/2270/
Japanese typhoons (台風, taifu) are originating over the Northwest Pacific Ocean. Usually it generates strong winds, torrentials rainfalls and a rise of the sea level.
Every year, typhoons pass over Japan, especially in the Okinawa Prefecture. Typhoons peak season is in August and September. Before typhoons arrive, Japanese media always provides detailed information (weather, peak hours, inpact on transportation...).
I have experimented my first typhoon in Japan. When you come from a country where there is no typhoon, you don't always know what it really is, and how to react to.
Typhoons in Japan are not exactly the same with what we call "typhoon" abroad. (see picture)
Before coming to Japan, the image I had of typhoons was houses and cities destroyed. My family still have this kind of image and they are always a little bit worried when I tell them a typhoon is coming. However, most of typhoons coming to Japan are not as strong as typhoons, hurricanes or cyclones.
Typhoons are well managed here. Of course typhoon could be dangerous, and you have to take caution to do not go out during the peak hours. Schools and universities often close when typhoons are announced. But for workers, typhoon or not, everyone come to the office and do his job as always. Here, typhoons are seen like a[storm is coming] in my coutry. Winds and rains could be dangerous, but when you stay inside (at home or at your office), you are quite safe.
The point you need to anticipate when typhoons are coming is transportation. Trains, subway, buses, airplanes being stopped for a while.
You could find more information by clicking here regarding the safety rules to respect when typhoons are coming.
H.