Vongfong weakens as it hits Japan

By Tom Sater and Junko Ogura, CNN

October 12, 2014 -- Updated 2142 GMT (0542 HKT)

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

(CNN) -- The latest in a string of powerful storms to hit Japan -- Vongfong -- weakened from typhoon to tropical storm as it made landfall in Okinawa prefecture early Sunday local time.

At least 33 injuries related to the storm were reported across Okinawa, Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures, officials said.

At least 60,000 across Japan were without power.

Japan's four main islands were expected to receive between 50 to 60 centimeters (19 to 24 inches) of rain.

Despite its weakening, authorities took steps such as stopping bullet train services because of flying debris and issued landslide warnings.

The storm comes on the heels of Typhoon Phanfone, which swept over southern Japan last week, washing three U.S. airmen out to sea on Okinawa.

U.S. and Japanese search crews found the last airman's body on Wednesday, according to a news release issued by authorities at Kadena.

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Vongfong weakens as it hits Japan