Storm develops in the Pacific Ocean near Guam in the Tropics
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has predicted that Tropical Storm Podul could approach the seas southeast of Taiwan next week, potentially bringing rain to the eastern parts of the island through Thursday.
The storm developed at 2am over waters about 2,660km east of Oluanpi, Taiwan's southernmost tip. As of now, Podul is drifting west-northwest at a speed of 22kph, with sustained winds of 65kph and gusts reaching up to 90kph.
The CWA has provided a photo of the storm, but no specific information about its wind speed or category was given. The agency has not ruled out issuing a sea warning for Tropical Storm Podul, but it is still too early to determine exactly when such a warning might be issued.
It is worth noting that Tropical Storm Podul has already impacted Taiwan as a typhoon on August 13, 2025, making landfall near Taitung City in southeastern Taiwan. The storm brought heavy rainfall, extremely strong winds, flooding, power outages, and evacuations of over 8,000 people. Several injuries and at least one missing person were reported, and major rainfall hotspots included Kaohsiung, Tainan, Chiayi, Penghu, and Kinmen, with widespread tree falls and flooding noted across central and southern Taiwan.
However, as of August 14, Podul has weakened to a severe tropical storm and moved on to make a second landfall in southeastern China’s Fujian province. Therefore, the direct impact on Taiwan is now mostly subsiding. There are no current forecasts indicating a threat to Taiwan next week since the storm has already passed the island.
The outlook for Tropical Storm Podul's development remains uncertain, but it is forecast to linger southeast of Taiwan on Tuesday next week. A more accurate forecast for Podul's development will depend on its proximity to Taiwan or the Bashi Channel in the coming days.
Stay tuned for updates on Tropical Storm Podul and any potential impact on Taiwan. In the meantime, it is always a good idea to stay informed, prepare for emergencies, and follow the advice of local authorities.
[1] Taiwan News [2] Central Weather Bureau [3] CNN
- The predicted approach of Tropical Storm Podul near Taiwan next week underscores the need for environmental-science studies to better understand the impacts of such weather events on the island's ecosystem.
- Given the history of Tropical Storm Podul causing severe weather conditions in Taiwan, it is crucial for science to provide accurate weather forecasts to ensure the safety and preparedness of the population.
