Typhoon Surigae Strengthens Toward Okinawa; Central Pressure Falls to 960 hPa by September 28

Typhoon No. 26, known as Surigae, is moving north-northeast toward Okinawa with intensifying strength. As of 6 a.m. on September 27, the storm sat 210 kilometers south of Naha with a central pressure of 975 hPa and maximum sustained winds of 35 m/s. The Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts the typhoon to reach peak intensity by September 28, with central pressure dropping to 960 hPa and gusts climbing to 60 m/s. Okinawa faces high waves, violent winds, and heavy rainfall through September 28, while western and eastern Japan may experience prolonged impacts by early October.

Current position and forecast track

Typhoon Surigae was located 210 kilometers south of Naha at 6 a.m. on September 27, moving north-northeast at 15 km/h. The Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts the typhoon to reach the east of Naha by 6 p.m. on September 27, then move toward the Minami-Daito Islands by September 28. By September 30, the storm is expected to position itself south of Japan’s main islands, then curve northeast through October 2.

Intensification and peak winds expected by September 28

The central pressure is forecast to fall from 975 hPa on September 27 to 960 hPa by 6 a.m. on September 28, marking peak intensity. Maximum sustained winds will strengthen from 35 m/s to 40 m/s, with gusts reaching 60 m/s by September 28. The gale-force wind zone extends 150 kilometers from the storm center, and the violent wind zone spans 120 kilometers. These conditions pose severe risks to shipping, coastal infrastructure, and populated areas.

Okinawa braces for heavy rain and high waves

Okinawa’s main island region faces the most immediate threat between September 27 and 28. Wave heights are expected to reach 6 meters, and rainfall may exceed 80 millimeters in some areas through September 27 evening. The Okinawa Meteorological Observatory warns of violent winds, warning-level heavy rain, and potential storm surges. Residents are advised to avoid coastlines and river mouths and to prepare for power outages and transportation disruptions by securing water, food, medications, and mobile batteries.

Potential impact on mainland Japan by early October

If Surigae slows as it moves north, it may strengthen the autumn rain front and bring prolonged rainfall to western and eastern Japan by the latter half of next week. The exact path and timing remain uncertain. Even if the typhoon curves away from Honshu’s main island, its interaction with the seasonal rain front could trigger heavy rain across Kyushu and the Pacific coast. Residents in these regions should monitor local disaster prevention information and prepare for possible flooding and landslides.

Final Thoughts

Typhoon Surigae poses an immediate and serious threat to Okinawa through September 28, with peak winds and lowest pressure expected by September 28 morning. Mainland Japan faces secondary risks from prolonged rain if the storm slows. Residents should heed all meteorological warnings and local government advisories.

FAQs

Disclaimer:

The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.