Typhoon Krosa Forces New Travel Disruptions and Flexible Rebooking Policies for Canadian Airlines

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Somudranil Sarkar

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July 31, 2025 20:43 GMT+5:30

Image generated with Ai

The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued a warning for citizens in the Kanto region as Typhoon Krosa, the ninth typhoon of the season, is expected to make landfall on the Izu Islands, located south of Tokyo, as early as August 1. This powerful storm is forecasted to bring strong winds, large waves, and the risk of landslides and flooding due to heavy rainfall. The agency has urged the public to take precautions and stay updated on the storm’s path.

Typhoon Krosa: Current Situation and Forecast

As of 6:45 a.m. on July 31, 2025, Typhoon Krosa was moving slowly toward the north over the Pacific Ocean, situated about 320 kilometers north-northeast of Chichijima Island, part of the Ogasawara Islands far to the south of Tokyo. The typhoon’s current trajectory suggests that it will impact areas south of the capital, including the Izu Islands, with increasing intensity. Typhoon Krosa has been generating maximum sustained wind speeds of 90 kilometers per hour, with brief bursts of wind reaching speeds up to 126 kilometers per hour.

These strong winds are expected to affect a wide area, particularly around the Izu Islands, where large waves and the potential for coastal flooding are anticipated. Additionally, the heavy rains accompanying the typhoon could cause rivers to overflow, leading to potential flooding in nearby regions. The risk of landslides, particularly in mountainous areas, has also been highlighted as a major concern. Given the intensity of the storm and the expected weather conditions, authorities have advised people to stay indoors and take safety precautions, especially in flood-prone and coastal regions.

Key Impacts of Typhoon Krosa

The primary risks associated with Typhoon Krosa include:

• Strong Winds: The storm is generating powerful winds capable of causing damage to infrastructure, such as uprooting trees, damaging buildings, and knocking down power lines. Travelers and residents are advised to avoid areas exposed to the full brunt of the storm.
• High Waves: The typhoon’s impact on coastal areas will include dangerous wave conditions, with the potential for significant erosion and damage to coastal properties. People living near the shoreline are encouraged to stay away from beaches and coastal areas during the storm’s passage.
• Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: The rainfall associated with Typhoon Krosa is expected to be intense, increasing the likelihood of river overflows and flash floods. Areas near rivers and streams are particularly vulnerable, and evacuation orders may be issued in the event of imminent flooding.
• Landslides: Due to the steep terrain in parts of the affected regions, the combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds could trigger landslides, posing a further danger to both residents and travelers.

Typhoon Krosa’s Impact on Travel and Airlines

In response to the approaching storm, Canadian airlines operating flights to Tokyo have implemented flexible rebooking policies to accommodate affected travelers. These policies are designed to provide passengers with the flexibility to modify or cancel their bookings without incurring additional fees, depending on the circumstances of their travel.

WestJet’s Response

WestJet, which operates direct flights to Tokyo from Calgary, Alberta, has responded to the storm by offering a one-time fee waiver for changes or cancellations on flights scheduled for August 1 and 2. This waiver allows travelers to make necessary changes without the usual penalty, ensuring they have the option to alter their travel plans if they are concerned about Typhoon Krosa’s impact.

If travelers choose to cancel their flights, WestJet will offer refunds or travel credits based on the fare class purchased. Passengers who have booked through WestJet Vacations also have the option to make changes to their travel plans. For more details on WestJet’s policies and how to make changes, passengers are encouraged to visit the airline’s website.

Air Canada’s Flexible Policies

Air Canada has also activated flexible policies for passengers traveling to Narita and Haneda airports in Tokyo on August 1. The airline has adjusted its ticketing policies to allow customers to modify their bookings without penalties, provided there is space available on alternate flights. This policy is designed to make it easier for travelers to change their plans if their flights are affected by the typhoon.

For passengers who purchased tickets through Air Canada Vacations, the airline recommends that they contact the customer service team directly at 1-800-296-3408 for assistance with rebooking or cancellations. The airline is committed to providing timely support to travelers impacted by the storm and ensuring that they can make alternative travel arrangements if necessary.

The Broader Impact of Typhoon Krosa on Travel in Japan

The impact of Typhoon Krosa is not limited to air travel. The typhoon is expected to disrupt various transportation networks in Japan, including trains, buses, and ferries. Travelers planning to visit Tokyo or other affected regions during the storm are advised to stay informed about transportation disruptions and consider postponing non-essential travel until the storm passes.

In addition to the disruption of transportation, businesses and tourist attractions in the affected areas may temporarily close to ensure the safety of both employees and visitors. Tourists should check the status of their planned activities and excursions before traveling and consider rescheduling their visits if necessary.

Preparing for Typhoon Krosa: Safety Recommendations

Residents and travelers in Japan are urged to take several important precautions in preparation for Typhoon Krosa:

• Stay Updated: Regularly check weather updates from official sources, including the Japan Meteorological Agency and local authorities, for the latest information on the typhoon’s progress and any warnings or evacuation orders issued in the affected areas.
• Secure Property: If in a vulnerable area, ensure that windows, doors, and outdoor furniture are securely fastened to prevent damage from strong winds. People living in flood-prone regions should take steps to protect their property from potential flooding.
• Prepare for Evacuation: If advised to evacuate, follow the instructions provided by local authorities and evacuate to a designated shelter or safe location. Ensure that emergency supplies, such as food, water, medications, and important documents, are readily accessible.
• Avoid Coastal Areas: Due to the expected high waves and risk of flooding, it is advised to stay away from beaches, shorelines, and coastal roads. Coastal residents should prepare for possible storm surges and take appropriate action to protect their homes.
• Travel Precautions: Travelers should confirm the status of their flights and transportation, as some services may be suspended or delayed due to the typhoon. Adjust travel plans as needed and consider rebooking flights if necessary to avoid being stranded in affected areas.

Navigating the Typhoon’s Impact

As Typhoon Krosa approaches Japan, residents and travelers must remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety. The storm’s potential to cause significant disruptions, from high winds and flooding to transportation delays, underscores the importance of preparedness and flexibility. For those with travel plans to Japan, especially to Tokyo and the surrounding regions, it is crucial to stay informed about flight changes and disruptions to ground transportation.

Airlines, including WestJet and Air Canada, are doing their part to assist passengers through flexible rebooking policies, allowing them to make changes to their travel plans without additional penalties. The key to navigating the challenges presented by Typhoon Krosa is staying informed, taking proactive safety measures, and being flexible with travel arrangements.