Typhoon No. 18 Forecast to Intensify Over Weekend

Aug 20, 2026 | News On Japan

NAHA - Typhoon No. 18 (Soudelor) is forecast to intensify into a "very strong" typhoon over the weekend as it moves westward from waters near the Caroline Islands, with the storm potentially approaching the Nansei Islands and Daito Islands early next week. As of 4 p.m. on August 20, the typhoon was located far south of Japan and was moving west at about 20 kilometers per hour.

Satellite imagery showed the system continuing to move gradually westward. While the typhoon had not yet undergone significant development, it is expected to strengthen steadily in the coming days.

Forecasts indicate that Typhoon No. 18 could reach "very strong" intensity over the weekend before weakening somewhat. Even after losing some strength, however, it is expected to remain a strong typhoon around August 25.

The storm is currently forecast to approach the Daito Islands and other parts of the Nansei Islands early next week.

Large swells generated by the typhoon are also expected to spread across a wide area. Wave simulations indicate that swells and high waves could reach extensive coastal areas of western and eastern Japan by early next week.

The eventual track remains uncertain, with forecasts still showing a wide range of possible paths.

The typhoon could turn farther north than currently projected, and its course may significantly affect weather conditions in western Japan and possibly eastern Japan from the middle of next week.

Residents and travelers are being advised to closely monitor the latest typhoon forecasts and weather information as the storm develops.

Source: ウェザーニュース

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