Powerful Rainstorms Pound E. US, N. Philippines, much of Japan

Heavy rainfall and flash flooding affecting parts of East Coast

Hurricane JOAQUIN a double whammy regardless of track

Many parts of the eastern U.S. are currently experiencing heavy rains and gusty winds associated with a frontal system. These rainstorms could continue for the next few days, even if the center of Hurricane JOAQUIN stays offshore. The resulting inland flood potential could complicate preparations for JOAQUIN, specially if heads toward the coast, where even more substantial inland flooding could occur. —NOAA

Philippines

Tropical Storm KABAYAN, packing strong winds, dumped heavy rain within a 300-km radius of the center of storm, before exiting landmass.

At 11:00 AM on 02 October 2015 the storm center was located at 16.5°N, 119.6°E about 95 km Northwest of Dagupan City, Pangasinan. The storm was headed toward West Philippine Sea.

Japan

Powerful rainstorms with typhoon-strength winds, generated by a broad low pressure system, pumelled most of Japan overnight, causing major diruptions in transportation and forcing flight and train cancellations.

Strong gusts and heavy rain from the system are forecast to continue until Friday afternoon, said the local forecasters.