Typhoon Barway's Path Uncertain: Taiwan Faces Potential Storm Impact

Typhoon Barway is approaching, with its main impact on Taiwan expected between Friday and Saturday. While its intensity may decrease slightly later, the storm's vast wind field means the entire island could be affected by its storm surge. The northern, eastern, and central mountainous areas of Taiwan are anticipated to experience the most severe conditions.

The typhoon's future trajectory is still subject to change, largely depending on the strength of the Pacific high-pressure system. Current forecasts suggest a high probability of Barway passing near Miyako and Ishigaki islands before heading towards the coast of China's Zhejiang province. A secondary possibility involves it passing through the waters northeast of Taiwan. Direct landfall on Taiwan itself is considered a low probability, though forecasters are monitoring the situation closely for the next one to two days.

Barway's internal structure has undergone adjustments, but it remains a powerful typhoon. With favorable development conditions, it could reach a second peak intensity within 36 hours. Although external factors like dry air and wind shear are expected to cause some weakening, it is still predicted to maintain significant strength.

If the typhoon's path shifts closer to Taiwan, rainfall and winds across the island are expected to intensify. Conversely, a more significant turn away would lessen the impact. The possibility of a subsequent southwest monsoon after the typhoon passes remains uncertain and depends on its final path and the evolution of the high-pressure system. However, some moisture is expected to be drawn in, potentially increasing rain in central and southern Taiwan.