Typhoon Kaimi Strengthens as It Approaches Okinawa: Preparations Urged Ahead of Severe Weather

2024/07/22 09:58 Weather News

As of 9:00 AM on July 22nd (Monday), Typhoon No. 3 (Kaemi) is slowly moving north-northeast off the east coast of the Philippines. The maximum wind speed near the center has reached 35 m/s, marking it a strong typhoon.

It is expected to continue moving northward and further intensify, approaching Okinawa with very strong forces around mid-week. Regions close to its path, especially the Miyako Islands, need to be wary of severe storms and high waves. Please take early measures against the typhoon.

▼ Typhoon No. 3 July 22nd (Monday) 9 AM
　Center Position　　　East of the Philippines
　Size Class　　／／
　Strength Class　　　Strong
　Movement　　　　　North-northeast, slowly
　Central Pressure　　　980 hPa
　Maximum Wind Speed　　　35 m/s (near center)
　Maximum Gust Speed　50 m/s
» Latest Typhoon Information

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Impact Starting Tomorrow

Due to high sea surface temperatures and favorable environmental conditions, we expect the typhoon to rapidly strengthen its power going forward. It is anticipated to reach very strong intensity as it approaches Okinawa.

The rain clouds surrounding the typhoon will begin to cover the area from tomorrow, July 23rd (Tuesday), with active rain clouds expected to pass through from July 24th (Wednesday) to 25th (Thursday).

After passing through Okinawa, it is expected to head towards mainland China. Although the likelihood of it approaching Honshu is very low, moist air will likely lead to rain on the Pacific side of western Japan. Therefore, even if you are far from the typhoon’s path, do not let your guard down.

Risk of Wind Gusts Exceeding 50 m/s

The typhoon is expected to pass near Okinawa at its peak intensity, leading to fierce winds. Particularly in the Miyako Islands, strong winds are anticipated, with average speeds exceeding 30 m/s and gusts reaching between 40-50 m/s. If the center passes near the islands, further intensification is possible.

Concerns include cars being overturned and trees or power poles falling. Given the relatively slow movement of the typhoon, severe weather may prevent outdoor activities for over 24 hours, requiring preparations for power outages and food supplies.

As today’s weather is relatively calm, please make as many typhoon preparations as possible.
» Radar Wind Mode

Each thin line in this diagram represents the simulation results of the predicted path calculated by meteorological agencies from around the world. This is the result of an ensemble forecast method, intended to illustrate the range of possible tracks.

When comparing these members, there is a general tendency towards the Miyako Islands; however, there is still variability in the path after passing Okinawa. Not just the path, but also the timing and intensity predictions come with uncertainties. As time passes, the margin of error is expected to decrease, so please pay attention to future updates.

Probability of Entering the Typhoon’s Storm Zone

The probabilities of entering the typhoon’s storm zone exceeding 3% for prefectural forecast areas by the fifth day are as follows (Meteorological Agency):
　Okinawa Main Island Region　　1 %
　Miyako Island Region　　　40 %
　Yaeyama Region　　　73 %

On the other hand, around July 28th (Tuesday), prior to the northward movement of the typhoon, rain is expected in eastern and western Japan due to a front. The moist air to the east of the typhoon may invigorate the front at this time.

With the passage of an upper-air pressure trough, rain clouds might develop, potentially leading to heavy rainfall, especially on the Pacific side. So even if the typhoon is still far away, please be vigilant for rain reports.
» Pinpoint Weekly Weather Forecast

First Typhoon in Two Months, Increase in Typhoon Occurrences Expected

This is the first typhoon occurrence since Typhoon No. 2, which formed at the end of May, about two months ago.

The average number of typhoons in July is typically 3.7, marking the beginning of the season when typhoon occurrences increase. Ensure preparations are in place for the full-fledged typhoon season leading into the fall, including measures for heavy rain.
» Radar Satellite Cloud Image Mode

Name of the Typhoon

The name of the typhoon is derived from a pre-prepared list of 140 names proposed by member countries of the “Typhoon Committee.”

The name “Kaemi” refers to ants in Korean (개미) and was suggested by South Korea.
» Radar Typhoon Mode

References and Resources