A typhoon which could hit Japan on Saturday and affect Irelands World Cup campaign is being monitored by world Rugby.
Typhoon Hagibis has formed from the shore of Japan in the Western Pacific Ocean, together with forecasts suggesting it might reach on the island of Kyushu this weekend.
Ireland face Samoa in the Kyushu city of Fukuoka on Saturday, where Joe Schmidts guys require a bonus-point victory to secure their own place.
Since scoreless draws, earning two points, any games cancelled in the World Cup because of weather issues are registered.
That situation would allow Scotland the chance to leapfrog Ireland if Gregor Townsends men defeat both Russia on Wednesday and hosts Japan on Sunday.
Previous predictions of typhoons hitting Japan and interrupting the tournament have so far unfounded.
Typhoon Mitag had threatened the battle of France however, the game was completed without issue.
World Rugby is monitoring the situation and will issue additional updates as the situation develops.
Were monitoring the evolution of a typhoon from the south shore of Japan in partnership with our weather information specialists, stated a World Rugby spokesman.
Its still too early to ascertain what, if any, impact there will be on training or match actions.

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