Two Team Singapore athletes travelling to the Asian Games faced sudden disruptions to their itineraries after Typhoon Dujuan tracked toward Japan’s east coast, according to a Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) spokesperson on Sept 21. The athletes, whose names were not released, had their flight from Tokyo to Nagoya cancelled due to the severe weather system, forcing an immediate shift to the shinkansen bullet train to reach their destination the same day.
Typhoon Dujuan Disrupts Travel Plans for Team Singapore
According to the SNOC, the majority of the Singapore contingent flew directly into Nagoya from Singapore and avoided travel delays. However, officials noted they are actively monitoring conditions for all athletes already stationed in Japan. The secretariat is working alongside individual sports teams to adjust schedules and safeguard competitor well-being as the storm system approaches.
Widespread Flight Cancellations and Evacuations Across Japan
Reuters reported that hundreds of domestic and international flights faced cancellation on Sept 21 as Typhoon Dujuan approached with winds reaching 144kmh. More than one million residents faced evacuation advisories, while forecasters anticipated record rainfall near Tokyo. The storm tracked approximately 130km south of Katsuura City near the capital. Budget carrier Scoot, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, confirmed that adverse weather conditions forced the rescheduling of four distinct flights.
Asian Games Schedule Adjustments and Swimming Updates
While the broader Asian Games schedule runs from Sept 19 to Oct 4 primarily across Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, severe weather prompted organizers to postpone the equestrian competition by a day on Sept 21. By contrast, SNOC confirmed that the swimming programme at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre will proceed without changes from Sept 20 to Sept 25. Singapore has deployed 304 athletes across 27 sports for the Games, featuring 29 swimmers and six divers, though the nation has no entries in equestrian events.
Did You Know?
Singapore’s contingent at the current Asian Games spans 27 different sports, backed by a dedicated administrative secretariat coordinating emergency travel adjustments during major regional weather events.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many athletes are representing Singapore at the Asian Games?
According to SNOC figures, a total of 304 athletes are representing Singapore across 27 sports.
Did Typhoon Dujuan affect the Singapore swimming team?
No. SNOC confirmed that the swimming events at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre will proceed as scheduled from Sept 20 to Sept 25.
How did the affected athletes travel to Nagoya after their flight was cancelled?
The unnamed athletes completed their journey using the shinkansen bullet train on the same day.
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