AIR notes that flood damage in Japan is not automatically included in wind policies.

Yesterday, AIR said that, in the countryside along affected areas, wood frame homes dominate residential construction, and many have heavy, clay-tile roofs meant to prevent damage from wind. AIR expects minor roof damage and little or no structural damage to these homes, and to larger multi-family apartment buildings and commercial and industrial structures. Modern urban structures are similarly expected to withstand Roke's wind speeds with minimal damage, as Japan has strict and well-enforced construction codes, AIR says.

Risk Management Solutions, citing the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), said yesterday that Roke passed 30 miles to the northwest of the Japanese capital, Tokyo, with winds at tropical-storm strength, though there are few damage reports from Tokyo. Roke continued to track northeast beyond Tokyo, which saw the system impact areas that were affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

According to the Associated Press, officials at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant say the storm did not affect the facility. Concerns had been raised that the storm could have an impact.