Typhoon Bavi Forces Thousands to Seek Shelter in Taiwan Amid Severe Weather Conditions

On July 11, 2026, thousands of residents in Taiwan sought shelter as Typhoon Bavi lashed Japan's remote southwestern islands and approached China. Over 14,000 people evacuated their homes, with many shops closing due to the severe weather conditions. The typhoon, which has caused widespread power outages in Okinawa, is expected to make landfall in China early Sunday.

Impact of Typhoon Bavi on Taiwan

In Taiwan's port city of Keelung, the streets remained largely deserted as the typhoon brought strong winds and heavy rain. A local breakfast shop owner, surnamed Tsai, shared, "Everyone is afraid of the severe weather and staying indoors, but I only came out because I have orders." He emphasized his commitment to delivering food to those on duty despite the worsening conditions.

As Bavi approached, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) reported that maximum sustained wind speeds had decreased to 144 kilometers (89 miles) per hour, with gusts reaching 180 kilometers (112 miles) per hour. The CWA also warned of extremely torrential rain and dangerous waves up to 10 meters (33 feet) high along Taiwan's coast.

Typhoon's Path and Effects on Japan

Before impacting Taiwan, Typhoon Bavi struck Guam and the Northern Marianas as a super typhoon. The storm has since caused significant disruptions in Japan, where over 18,000 households in Okinawa lost power. The Miyako region faced the worst effects, prompting airlines to cancel dozens of flights, affecting more than 26,000 passengers.

Storm chaser James Reynolds reported from Ishigaki, stating, "Miyako is taking the worst of typhoon Bavi. Conditions on Ishigaki are gale force with some overnight gusts to typhoon strength."

Casualties and Preparations in the Philippines and China

In the Philippines, heavy rains from Bavi triggered landslides that resulted in at least 15 fatalities on the southern island of Mindanao. Authorities reported that dozens of ports across the nation remain closed, with 313 vessels sheltering from the adverse weather conditions.

Bavi is anticipated to make landfall in eastern China early Sunday, with exceptionally heavy rains forecasted for eastern Zhejiang province and northeastern Fujian province. In Xiaguan Town, the entire population of over 10,000 people has been evacuated due to fears of strong winds.

Extreme weather has wreaked havoc on southern and central China this week, with recent storms leaving at least 39 dead and leading to overflowing rivers and a dam burst.