Typhoon Dolphin, classified as a 'very strong' storm by the Japan Meteorological Agency, hammered the islands of Okinawa and Amami this weekend, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. With maximum wind speeds reaching 162km/h, the storm knocked out power to at least 44,000 buildings and forced the closure of Naha International Airport.
Five elderly residents suffered injuries, largely due to the sheer force of the winds, which were strong enough to topple trees and overturn vehicles.
As the storm continues its path toward China's eastern coast, officials in Zhejiang have scrambled to mitigate the damage, raising coastal alerts to the highest level and grounding all flights at Ningbo Lishe International Airport.
Ports and ferry services have been suspended, and schools remain shuttered as the region prepares for the typhoon's arrival late Sunday or early Monday. While typhoon season is a regular occurrence in the western Pacific, experts note that this year's strong El Niño conditions are contributing to increased storm intensity.
For now, residents in the path of the storm are left to contend with the high waves, storm surges, and lightning strikes that accompany this powerful weather event.
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