Typhoon Dolphin has lashed Japan’s Okinawa islands, injuring five people and leaving nearly 14,000 buildings without power, as the powerful tropical cyclone continues its westward march toward China.
By 8:30 a.m. IST, Dolphin was located about 160 km northwest of Kume Island, moving at 15 km/h with maximum sustained winds of 162 km/h and gusts up to 216 km/h, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).
The storm disrupted life across southern Japan, forcing the cancellation of over 500 flights and prompting evacuation orders for 2.6 lakh people in Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures.
🌊 How Dolphin Formed
Originating as a tropical disturbance over the western Pacific on July 27, Dolphin rapidly intensified over warm ocean waters, reaching super‑typhoon strength by July 30 with winds near 270 km/h. Though weakened, it remains capable of destructive winds, torrential rain, and dangerous coastal conditions.
China Prepares
The typhoon is expected to make landfall between Zhoushan (Zhejiang) and Fuding (Fujian) between late Sunday and early Monday. Authorities have raised coastal alerts to the highest level, suspended 162 ferry routes, and cleared Shanghai’s Yangshan port of vessels.
China has activated a level‑three emergency response, closing schools and tourist sites in Zhejiang, while Taiwan cancelled 63 international flights as a precaution.
🌧️ Forecast
Eastern China could receive over 600 mm of rainfall through August 12, while Japan continues recovery efforts from Dolphin’s impact.
The storm’s trajectory underscores the increasing intensity of Pacific cyclones, driven by warm ocean temperatures and volatile atmospheric conditions.
