Typhoon Bavi, with winds approaching 200 kph (124 mph), is set to become one of the most destructive storms in recent years, threatening both China and Taiwan.

The storm, spanning about 1,000 km (621 miles) at its widest point, is forecast to skirt northern Taiwan before making landfall in China’s eastern Fujian province on July 11, 2026.Authorities in Taiwan have warned of up to one meter (3.3 feet) of rain in mountainous regions north of Taipei and have placed 29,000 soldiers on standby.

Fishermen in Suao, a northeastern Taiwanese fishing town, have sheltered their boats in harbors, while residents have queued for sandbags and farmers rushed to secure crops.The storm’s intensity, linked to climate change and the potential El Niño phenomenon, has raised concerns about its impact on coastal regions.In southern China, rescue workers continue to search for victims of Typhoon Maysak, which killed at least 39 people earlier in the week.

The article highlights the preparedness efforts, the historical context of such storms, and the potential for catastrophic damage if Bavi’s path remains unchanged.

Experts warn that even minor shifts in the storm’s trajectory could significantly affect its impact, underscoring the urgency of evacuation and safety measures.