Typhoon Dolphin strikes southern Japan and approaches China

Typhoon Dolphin hit Japan’s southern islands, particularly the Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures, between August 7 and August 8, 2026. The storm brought winds reaching 144 km/h with gusts up to 198 km/h, resulting in the injury of six people, including five elderly residents in Okinawa. Power outages affected over 50,000 buildings, with 39,000 in Kagoshima and 12,000 in Okinawa. Transportation was severely disrupted, as the Naha airport suspended operations, leading to the cancellation of over 500 flights by major carriers like ANA and Japan Airlines.

Following its impact on Japan, the storm tracked toward the eastern coast of China. In anticipation of the typhoon, Chinese authorities initiated mass evacuations and closed major ports and ferry services. By early August 9, flight operations in Shanghai were significantly impacted, with over 1,300 cancellations reported. The Japan Meteorological Agency and local authorities have maintained high-alert status due to ongoing dangerous winds, heavy rainfall, and hazardous sea conditions. Emergency measures remain in effect as the region prepares for further impact from the weather system.