Could Typhoon Saola Return? Storm Formation Unlikely, but Taiwan Sea Warning Still Possible

Tropical depression TD20, formerly Typhoon Saola, could approach Taiwan even though forecasters say its chances of becoming a typhoon again are low.

The system is expected to move northeast from near Hainan Island toward waters southwest of Taiwan. Forecast official Chao Hung said the surrounding conditions do not favor development. If TD20 strengthens into a typhoon, it should gradually weaken as it nears Taiwan, although a sea warning could be issued as early as September 1 if the weakening is slower than expected.

Another tropical depression, TD27, formed east of Taiwan inside a broad low-pressure area. It is expected to move toward waters south of the Ryukyu Islands and is not forecast to directly affect Taiwan.

The weather agency said Taiwan will remain under the influence of a broad low-pressure belt. Strong southwest winds are bringing a risk of short-duration torrential rain and locally heavy rain south of Chiayi and in Taitung, while other areas could see afternoon thunderstorms. Through Wednesday, southern Taiwan and eastern areas face further heavy rain risks.

Moisture is expected to decrease on Thursday as the low-pressure system moves north, although parts of western Taiwan, Yilan and Hualien could still receive heavy rain. From Friday, northeasterly winds are expected to shift the main rain area to northern Taiwan and Yilan. Long waves are also possible along southern and eastern coasts, the Hengchun Peninsula and Penghu.

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The conditions along its path are unfavorable for development, and the probability of it becoming a typhoon is low.