A STRONG typhoon that could bring “historic” winds and rains is poised to make a direct hit on Tokyo today, as authorities warn of high waves, landslides and flooding.

Typhoon Faxai, packing winds of up to 216kph, is forecast to reach coastal areas near Tokyo in the late hours of today into tomorrow morning, said the meteorological agency.

“Please be on full alert against gusts and high waves, and be vigilant about landslides, floods and swollen rivers,” it said in a statement.

Agency official Naoji Nakamura told reporters that “historic” winds and rains may be recorded.

The storm is already affecting transportation in the region, with operators scrapping some services by ferries and the Shinkansen bullet train.

The Japan Railway Company said it will cancel some 50 bullet train trips between Tokyo and central and western cities, while ferries operating from Tokyo bay are affected.

Some 30 flights will be grounded later in the day, and some coastal highways have been closed in Kanagawa, west of Tokyo, due to the storm, reported local media.

Faxai was churning near Hachijojima Island, south of Tokyo, at 10am (0100 GMT) today, travelling northwest and already producing high waves.

Powerful Typhoon Krosa lashed western Japan in the middle of last month, bringing strong winds and torrential rains that claimed one life.

Late last month, heavy rains left three people dead as massive floods hit western Japan. – AFP, September 8, 2019.