Typhoon Champi: Taiwan Braces For Powerful Winds And Heavy Rain As Storm Heads Towards China, Japan

News india Typhoon Champi: Taiwan Braces For Powerful Winds And Heavy Rain As Storm Heads Towards China, Japan

Last Updated:October 23, 2026, 15:26 IST

Champi previously recorded wind speeds of nearly 300 kmph. It has since weakened, but Taiwan remains on high alert as the storm approaches

Typhoon Champi, which developed over the Pacific Ocean, is passing close to Taiwan’s northeastern coast on October 23-24 before moving towards China and Japan. Although the storm has weakened from its earlier super typhoon strength, it continues to pose a threat, with authorities warning of torrential rain, powerful winds and dangerous waves.

According to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Champi previously recorded wind speeds of nearly 300 kmph. It has since weakened, but Taiwan remains on high alert as the storm approaches. Hundreds of flights have been cancelled, while schools, offices and financial markets have shut across much of the island.

Taiwan On Alert As Typhoon Champi Approaches

Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration has warned that Champi could bring heavy to torrential rain, particularly to northern and northeastern parts of the island. Some mountainous areas could receive up to 900 millimetres of rain over three days, raising the risk of flooding and landslides.

The storm could also generate dangerous waves along the coast. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has urged residents to remain cautious and prepare for strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Authorities have mobilised military personnel for potential relief and rescue operations, while residents in vulnerable areas are being moved to safer locations. People have also been advised to avoid beaches, mountainous areas and other places at risk of flooding.

What Do Weather Experts Say About Champi’s Impact?

Taiwanese forecasters expect the storm’s effects to be felt through Saturday, even as it weakens. Champi’s large circulation means its impact could extend across much of the island, bringing heavy rain and strong gusts beyond areas closest to its centre.

The storm’s winds could damage infrastructure, uproot trees and bring down electricity poles. Emergency teams have been placed on standby with boats and other rescue equipment as authorities prepare for possible flooding and landslides.

Although Champi is forecast to pass offshore rather than make a direct landfall in Taiwan, officials have warned that this does not eliminate the danger. Heavy rain and powerful coastal waves can cause serious disruption even when a typhoon’s centre remains at sea.

China And Japan Also Face Disruption

Champi’s impact is expected to extend beyond Taiwan. Parts of eastern China could face heavy rainfall and flash flooding as the storm moves north. Authorities have warned of possible flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas, including parts of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Fujian provinces, as well as the Shanghai region.

Japan is also preparing for the storm’s arrival. Airlines have cancelled flights, while meteorological authorities are monitoring the risk of high waves and heavy rain as Champi moves towards the country’s southwestern islands.

The storm’s precise track and intensity could change as it moves away from Taiwan, making continued monitoring important for communities along its projected path.

Is El Niño Contributing To Pacific Storm Activity?

El Niño is another important factor in the region’s wider weather outlook this year. The climate phenomenon involves unusually warm sea-surface temperatures across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific, which can influence weather patterns around the world.

The World Meteorological Organization said in its September update that El Niño was firmly established and expected to strengthen further, potentially affecting rainfall and temperatures into early 2027.

However, El Niño alone does not explain the development or strength of an individual typhoon. Storm intensity and movement depend on several factors, including ocean temperatures, atmospheric conditions and wind patterns.

As Champi moves towards China and Japan, authorities across the region are urging residents to follow official weather alerts and prepare for possible disruption.