Three typhoons raise alarm across China, Taiwan and Japan

BEIJING: Weather authorities across East Asia are on high alert as multiple powerful tropical systems churn across the South China Sea and northwestern Pacific, threatening China, Taiwan and Japan with torrential rain, strong winds, flooding and dangerous seas.

China’s meteorological authorities have activated a Level IV emergency response as three typhoons — Gaenari, Narra and Saudel — developed simultaneously over waters near the country’s coastal regions, creating an unusually active weather pattern.

The situation has raised particular concern because the storms are affecting areas that have already experienced heavy rainfall and flooding. In southern China, Typhoon Narra brought intense downpours after making landfall in Hainan, while parts of Guangxi, Guangdong and surrounding regions faced worsening flood conditions.

Among the systems being closely monitored is Saudel, which has emerged as a major threat to parts of Japan, Taiwan and eastern China. The storm recently battered Japan’s Okinawa and Amami islands with powerful winds and high seas, disrupting flights and leaving thousands of homes without electricity.

Taiwan is also bracing for heavy rainfall as Saudel passes north of the island. Forecasts indicate that central and southern parts of Taiwan could receive significant rain, while stronger winds remain possible in the Matsu area. The storm is expected to weaken gradually as it moves away.

The threat is not limited to strong winds. Meteorologists warn that the combined influence of tropical systems and seasonal monsoon conditions could produce prolonged rainfall, increasing the danger of flash floods, landslides and mudslides in vulnerable areas.

China has urged residents in coastal and high-risk regions to remain vigilant and follow official instructions. Authorities have also taken precautionary measures in several areas, including closures and evacuations in locations facing heightened flood risks.

The latest developments underline how quickly weather conditions can change across the western Pacific during the peak typhoon season. With several systems active at the same time, emergency agencies are closely tracking their movements and intensity.

For communities across China, Taiwan and Japan, the immediate priority remains preparedness as authorities warn that heavy rain, powerful winds and rough seas could continue to pose serious risks in the days ahead.