Typhoon Dolphin, which has been developing over the northwestern Pacific for several days, continues to steadily move westward and is expected to pass through waters near the Ryukyu Islands. A meteorological social media page has analyzed that Dolphin's current radius of gale-force winds has expanded to 320 kilometers, classifying it as a very large-scale typhoon. This massive system is projected to come closest to northern waters of Taiwan this weekend (August 8–9), before continuing toward mainland China. Due to its large size and northerly path, meteorological experts estimate a high probability that Taiwan's Central Weather Administration will issue a marine typhoon warning for surrounding waters.
The meteorological fan page 'Taiwan Typhoon Forum | Weather Emergency' posted on Threads that Typhoon Dolphin has been developing over the ocean for nearly a week and now exhibits all the characteristics of a large typhoon. It is expected to maintain this massive size as it moves forward. Observing its trajectory and intensity changes, Dolphin's path skirting north of Taiwan closely mirrors that of Typhoon Bavi in early July. Although the chance of a direct landfall on Taiwan's main island is low, the typhoon's extensive wind and rain field means its impact on surrounding seas and land areas cannot be overlooked.
How bad will the weather be in northern Taiwan this weekend? Experts emphasize that rainfall will be particularly significant. The fan page specifically highlighted that as Typhoon Dolphin nears Taiwan over the weekend, its broad outer circulation will cause a marked deterioration in weather conditions across northern regions. The page even bluntly stated that northern weather will be 'essentially ruined, like a pile of mud.' Additionally, with abundant moisture flowing in, localized heavy rains are expected in mountainous areas across the island.
The fan page further added that after Typhoon Dolphin passes by northern waters over the weekend and gradually moves away, Taiwan's atmospheric environment will shift to southwesterly winds in the early part of next week. Under the influence of these southwesterly winds, lowland areas in southern Taiwan are expected to experience several more days of rain, prolonging the overall rainfall duration. Residents in the south should remain vigilant about subsequent moisture changes.
The Central Weather Administration has issued its latest forecast, stating that starting tomorrow (August 6), moisture around Taiwan will gradually increase. There is a chance of scattered showers in northern and Yilan regions, while afternoon thunderstorms are likely in central and southern areas. By Friday (August 7), as the typhoon's outer circulation draws closer, northern areas will shift to short-duration showers, with scattered rain also expected in central and southern regions.
The Administration warns that during Saturday and Sunday (August 8–9), when the typhoon comes closest, the direct influence of the outer circulation will bring localized heavy rains to areas north of central Taiwan. Mountainous regions across the island may even experience torrential downpours, while southern and Yilan areas will also face chances of showers. According to the rainfall trend map released by the Administration, central and northern regions will see concentrated and intense rainfall. The public is advised to exercise caution, especially if planning outdoor activities.
What is the current situation with multiple typhoons? Here's an update on Typhoon Kujira and potential Typhoon Chan-hom. In addition to Typhoon Dolphin, there are currently two other systems in the Pacific: Typhoon Kujira and the developing system near Chan-hom. However, meteorological experts reassure the public not to worry excessively about mutual typhoon interactions.
The fan page explained that Typhoon Kujira's structure is rapidly weakening and is expected to downgrade to a tropical depression soon, making it a short-lived typhoon. Meanwhile, the potential Typhoon Chan-hom is located extremely far from Taiwan. Although three typhoons appear simultaneously over the ocean for a brief period, this multi-typhoon scenario will soon end as Kujira weakens. The primary weather impact on Taiwan will remain focused on Typhoon Dolphin.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR Times
- Category: News