Taiwan is bracing for the potential impact of Typhoon Champi, which could bring significant rainfall to the region later this week. Authorities may issue a sea warning for the typhoon as early as Wednesday night, with a possible land warning following on Thursday night or Friday, as the storm moves closer to the island.
The typhoon is expected to have its most pronounced effects on Friday and Saturday. Heavy rainfall is predicted for central and northern Taiwan, as well as in the eastern counties of Yilan and Hualien. Champi is currently moving west-northwest at approximately 20 kilometers per hour, with maximum sustained winds reaching 191 kilometers per hour. Projections suggest that the typhoon could maintain its current strength as it nears the waters northeast of Taiwan.
The storm’s path remains uncertain, with several meteorological models proposing various potential routes. These scenarios include the possibility of Champi making landfall in eastern Taiwan, veering northward before reaching the island, or following a more southerly trajectory through the Bashi Channel, which lies between Taiwan and the Philippines.
The direction of Typhoon Champi will be influenced by changes in the Pacific high-pressure system, which could alter its course. Until the typhoon approaches, weather conditions across Taiwan are expected to remain relatively stable, although isolated showers might occur in some coastal and eastern areas.