Published：Jun 19, 16:00Last updated：Jun 26, 12:26

Dual Typhoon Threat Intensifies for Japan as Mekkhala and Meari Approach

Jun. 19, 2026 16:00

Tropical Storm 'Mekkhala' formed near Palau with winds of 65 km/h and is expected to strengthen as it moves west-northwest at 15-20 km/h. By June 24, it may approach southeastern Taiwan before weakening. The storm's path remains uncertain, but it will likely recurve northward over the Pacific. Authorities are monitoring its development closely. Earlier this year, Typhoon 'Nokaen' and 'Rosa' also impacted the region, with 'Mekkhala' being the seventh typhoon of 2026.

Summarized

27News

7Media

Jun. 26, 2026 09:05

Typhoons Mekkhala and Higos are affecting Japan with strong winds and heavy rain, leading to flight cancellations and travel disruptions. The storms are expected to intensify and potentially make landfall, prompting landslide warnings in some regions.

Jun. 26, 2026 12:26

Two tropical storms converging over Japan have led to flight disruptions and evacuation orders. Authorities issued landslide warnings as hundreds of thousands were urged to evacuate. The storms pose significant risks to transportation and safety across affected regions.

Japan is bracing for impacts from two approaching tropical systems - Typhoon Mekkhala and Typhoon Meari - which have already caused significant disruptions across East Asia. The storms are bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds up to 25 m/s, and triggering widespread evacuation orders and landslide warnings. Authorities are particularly concerned about the storms' unpredictable interaction as they converge near Japanese territory.

🌊 Storm Development and Path

Typhoon Mekkhala, now located 570 km southwest of Kagoshima, is moving northeast at 20-25 km/h with winds reaching 12级 in the East China Sea. Meanwhile, Typhoon Meari is tracking northeast toward Japan with similar intensity. The Central Meteorological Office has issued blue alerts for both systems, warning of potential merging or sequential impacts. The Japan Times+2

🚨 Taiwan Impacts

Taiwan has already experienced torrential rains from the approaching storms, leading to shutdowns and evacuations. The island faces continued heavy rainfall forecasts of 100-200 mm, with particular concern for flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas. Ports have been secured and emergency measures activated. Reuters+2

🇯🇵 Japan's Preparedness

Japanese authorities have issued landslide warnings across multiple regions and ordered evacuations for hundreds of thousands of residents. The dual typhoon threat has caused significant travel disruptions, including flight cancellations and transportation shutdowns. Recovery efforts are expected to be extensive regardless of the storms' final paths. Deutsche Welle+2

⚠️ Safety Measures

Emergency response teams are on high alert as both typhoons approach. The National Marine Environmental Forecasting Center continues to warn of high waves up to 6 meters in the East China Sea. Coastal communities are preparing for potential storm surges, while inland areas focus on flood prevention. Huanqiu+2

🌧️ Regional Effects

The typhoons' convergence is creating unusual weather patterns, with their combined moisture potentially diverting rainfall from eastern China. The East China Sea is experiencing winds of 8-9 grades, while Taiwan and Japan's southern islands bear the brunt of precipitation. Authorities emphasize the need for continued vigilance as the situation evolves. The Japan Times+2

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Coverage centers on Typhoon Mekkhala's path toward the East China Sea and Taiwan, with updates on meteorological warnings and disaster preparedness measures.