TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) announced Thursday (Sept. 26) that a low-pressure system near the Ryukyu Islands in Japan is likely to intensify into Typhoon Jebi (燕子) by Saturday (Sept. 28).
Meteorologist Wu Der-rong (吳德榮) noted that U.S. models from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction predict a closer path for the potential typhoon, possibly crossing directly over Taiwan.
Wu said that there will be a moderate typhoon from next Monday to next Wednesday, adding that it could be even stronger. The meteorologist believes Taiwan may be hit by a fairly strong typhoon.
He also mentioned that European models from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) indicate a tropical disturbance developing southeast of Taiwan starting Friday (Sept. 27).
This disturbance could approach Taiwan early next week, with its intensity potentially reaching a moderate typhoon level or higher, posing a significant threat to Taiwan.
Wu further explained that the U.S. model forecasts show a closer path and possibly direct landfall in Taiwan.
However, the route of travel and the level of threat to Taiwan depends on how close it is or whether it will land or not, which is still uncertain, Wu said, adding that meteorologists need to continue to observe it in the next two to three days.
He advised the public to prepare for a strong typhoon early next week.
Residents should stay updated with the latest weather information and prepare for potential severe weather conditions from the following Monday to Wednesday.
