World Rugby issues latest typhoon update

World Rugby has issued its latest weather update ahead of the final weekend of pool matches at the World Cup, stating it is still too early to predict what impact the threatened typhoon will have on its schedule. 

“World Rugby, Japan Rugby 2019 and our weather information experts continue to closely monitor the direction and strength of Typhoon Hagibis (Typhoon 19),” opened the statement that was issued on Tuesday. 

“It remains too early to fully predict the movement and impact of the storm, however the latest modelling by our weather information experts indicates that it is now tracking north and east and will bring strong winds and heavy rain to Tokyo and surrounding areas on 12 October.

“Public and team safety is our number one priority. While we have robust contingency plans in place for pool matches, such plans, if required, will only be actioned if the safety of teams, fans, and workforce can be guaranteed. It would be inappropriate to comment on any contingency plans at this stage.

“We will continue to closely monitor this developing situation in partnership with our weather information experts, local authorities, transport providers and the teams, and will provide a further update Wednesday. Fans are advised to monitor official Rugby World Cup channels for any updates.”

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