At 3:00 PM on the 18th, Typhoon No. 17 formed in the South China Sea. It is expected to move towards the continent and is not anticipated to have a direct impact on Japan.

The southern seas are active, with two tropical depressions already present as of 5:00 PM, both expected to develop into typhoons.

[Typhoon No. 17 (Mitag)]
As of 4:10 PM on the 18th
・Observation at 3:00 PM on the 18th
Type: Typhoon
Location: South China Sea
Direction and Speed: West-Northwest 20 km/h (10 kt)
Central Pressure: 1002 hPa
Maximum Instantaneous Wind Speed: 25 m/s (50 kt)

・Forecast for 3:00 AM on the 19th
Type: Typhoon
Location: South China Sea
Direction and Speed: West-Northwest 30 km/h (15 kt)
Central Pressure: 1002 hPa
Maximum Instantaneous Wind Speed: 25 m/s (50 kt)

・Forecast for 3:00 PM on the 19th
Type: Typhoon
Location: South China Sea
Direction and Speed: Northwest 10 km/h (6 kt)
Central Pressure: 1000 hPa
Maximum Instantaneous Wind Speed: 30 m/s (60 kt)

・Forecast for 3:00 PM on the 20th
Type: Tropical Depression
Location: Southern China
Direction and Speed: West-Northwest, slow
Central Pressure: 1004 hPa

«Tropical Depression B» is expected to move west between the Philippines and Taiwan, potentially affecting the Sakishima Islands, including Ishigaki Island.

«Tropical Depression C» may also take a path veering east, avoiding mainland Japan, based on the forecast circle.

However, looking at forecast paths from Europe and other countries worldwide, some show it heading towards Kyushu and mainland Japan, indicating predictions are still unstable. Please stay updated with future information as a precaution.

South China Sea

The South China Sea is a major marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean, bordered by several Southeast Asian nations. Historically, it has been a critical maritime trade route for centuries, connecting East Asia with the Indian Ocean and beyond. Today, it is also a region of significant geopolitical importance due to competing territorial claims over islands and waters, most notably by China and its neighbors.

Japan

Japan is an island nation in East Asia with a rich history spanning millennia, from its ancient imperial era and samurai culture to its modern transformation after World War II. It is renowned for its unique blend of deep traditional heritage—including Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, and tea ceremonies—and cutting-edge technology and pop culture.

Philippines

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian archipelago nation with a rich history of indigenous cultures, Spanish colonial rule for over 300 years, and a subsequent period of American influence. This complex past is reflected in its unique blend of Asian and Western traditions, Catholic festivals, and historic sites like the Baroque churches and the ancient rice terraces of Banaue.

Taiwan

Taiwan is an island off the coast of mainland China with a complex history of indigenous settlement, Chinese migration, and periods of Dutch, Spanish, and Japanese colonial rule. It is known for its vibrant democracy, bustling night markets, and dramatic natural landscapes like Taroko Gorge. The island’s status is a subject of international dispute, as the People’s Republic of China claims sovereignty over it.

Sakishima Islands

The Sakishima Islands are a southwestern island chain within Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, comprising the Miyako, Yaeyama, and Senkaku island groups. Historically, they were part of the independent Ryukyu Kingdom before its annexation by Japan in the 19th century. The islands are known for their distinct culture, unique languages, and pristine coral reefs.

Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island is the political and economic hub of the Yaeyama Islands in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture. Historically, it was a vital trading post within the Ryukyu Kingdom and later became known for its production of sugarcane and awamori distilled spirits. Today, the island is a popular tourist destination, celebrated for its stunning coral reefs, white sand beaches, and as a gateway to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding archipelago.

Kyushu

Kyushu is Japan’s third-largest island, historically known as a vital gateway for cultural exchange with mainland Asia. It was the first point of contact for Portuguese traders in the 16th century and the likely initial landing site of Buddhism in Japan. The region is also famous for its active volcanoes, numerous hot springs, and the historic city of Nagasaki.

Mainland Japan

Mainland Japan, historically known as Honshū, is the largest and most populous island of the Japanese archipelago. It has been the political and cultural heart of the nation for centuries, serving as the seat of imperial power, the shogunate governments, and the modern capital of Tokyo. The island is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including ancient temples, castles, and the iconic Mount Fuji.