Typhoon No. 26 Intensifies Toward Okinawa; Japan Braces for Strong Winds

Typhoon No. 26, named Surigae, is strengthening faster than initially predicted and will approach Okinawa and the Amami Islands by September 27. As of September 25 at 3 p.m., the Japan Meteorological Agency reported the storm was moving west-northwest at 25 kilometers per hour with a central pressure of 1,000 hectopascals and maximum sustained winds of 20 meters per second. By September 28, forecasters expect the typhoon to intensify to a strong system with winds reaching 40 meters per second and gusts of 60 meters per second, creating a storm-force wind zone extending 350 kilometers from its center.

Current position and forecast track

On September 25, Typhoon No. 26 was located east of the Philippines, moving west-northwest at 25 kilometers per hour. The Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts the storm will curve northeastward around September 27, approaching the waters south of Okinawa. By September 27 at 3 p.m., the typhoon is expected to develop into a strong system. The U.S. military’s Joint Typhoon Warning Center projects maximum sustained winds of 46 meters per second by September 27 at 9 p.m., slightly higher than the Japan Meteorological Agency’s initial estimate of 40 meters per second.

Expected intensity and wind zones by September 28

The Japan Meteorological Agency predicts that by September 28 at 3 p.m., the typhoon’s central pressure will drop to 960 hectopascals, with maximum sustained winds of 40 meters per second and peak gusts reaching 60 meters per second. A storm-force wind zone will extend 350 kilometers in all directions from the storm’s center. The typhoon is expected to slow and gradually change direction, initially turning northward before moving increasingly eastward. If the storm tracks along the northern edge of its forecast cone, it could pass particularly close to Okinawa’s main island.

Potential impact on Kyushu and Honshu

Meteorological forecasts indicate the typhoon may veer sharply eastward by early October, potentially approaching the Kinki, Tokai, and Kanto regions of Honshu between October 1 and October 2. A stationary autumn rain front remains over Honshu, and interaction with the typhoon could trigger widespread heavy rainfall across Kyushu, Kanto, and central Japan. Residents in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas face risks of flooding, storm surges, and landslides. The Japan Meteorological Agency urges residents nationwide to complete disaster preparations, such as securing outdoor items, over the weekend.

Forecast uncertainty and monitoring

Considerable uncertainty remains over the typhoon’s subsequent movement after September 28. The forecast cone for September 29 is particularly wide, reflecting significant differences in its possible track as the system gradually turns eastward. The Japan Meteorological Agency has not yet issued forecasts for October 1 and beyond. Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates and emergency information closely and prepare early for potential severe weather.

Final Thoughts

Typhoon No. 26 poses a significant threat to Okinawa and southern Japan this weekend, with the potential to impact Honshu early next week. Residents should complete preparations immediately and monitor official forecasts closely.

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