Typhoon 18 struck the Daito Islands region of Okinawa on Tuesday with strong intensity [1, 2].
The storm's slow movement and high intensity increase the risk of prolonged wind damage and severe flooding across southern Japan. Local authorities have issued warnings for gale-force winds and heavy rainfall as the system tracks toward more populated areas.
North Daito Island recorded a maximum instantaneous wind speed of 42.2 m/s [1]. The system is described as a strong, slow-moving storm, which prolongs the impact of its wind and rain [1, 2].
Forecasters expect the main island of Okinawa to enter the storm's gale-force area soon. The typhoon is projected to make its closest approach to the main island and the Amami region by the morning of Aug. 26 [2, 3].
Conditions in the Amami region are expected to be particularly severe. Meteorologists predict maximum instantaneous wind speeds could reach 60 m/s [1]. Additionally, rainfall in the Amami region is forecast to reach 250 mm by noon on Aug. 26 [1].
"Typhoon 18 hit Okinawa; be on high alert for storms and heavy rain," Weather News said [3].
Emergency services are monitoring the path of the storm as it moves toward the main island. Residents have been advised to take strict precautions against the predicted wind and rain [3].
Tenki.jp editorial staff said the strong typhoon is expected to be closest to the Amami region and the main island of Okinawa through Wednesday morning [2].
“North Daito Island recorded a maximum instantaneous wind speed of 42.2 m/s.”
The slow-moving nature of Typhoon 18 increases the duration of exposure for coastal communities, which typically leads to higher saturation of soil and a greater risk of landslides. Because the storm is maintaining strong intensity as it moves toward the main island of Okinawa and Amami, the potential for infrastructure damage is significantly higher than with faster-moving systems.
