More than a hundred flights were canceled today as two tropical storms approach the archipelago of Japan, where authorities have advised residents in some areas to evacuate their homes immediately due to the risk of flooding or landslides.

The storm Mekhala, with gusts of up to 144 kilometers per hour according to meteorologists, is expected to arrive within hours, while heavy rains are already affecting parts of southern and western Japan.

It is expected to move along the islands of Kyushu and Shikoku over the weekend; after which it may merge with the storm Higos, which is located farther out in the Pacific Ocean.

If the two storms do indeed merge, the Fujiohara phenomenon may occur, making it very difficult to predict the strength and direction of the new storm.

Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways canceled 70 and 50 flights, respectively, that were bound for or departing from the prefectures of Okinawa and Kagoshima.

In Kyoto Prefecture, authorities recommended the immediate evacuation of thousands of residents, fearing landslides.

In Kyoto and Osaka, authorities announced that water levels in major rivers are rising and issued a warning to residents to be on alert for possible flooding.

The Japanese Self-Defense Forces canceled the first scheduled V-22 Osprey flight to Miyako Island as part of joint exercises with the U.S., the Kyodo News Agency reported.