Typhoon 31 develops near Marshall Islands, posing risks to Guam and Ogasawara Islands

Typhoon 31, the first to occur in October in 32 years, has developed near the Marshall Islands. As of October 26, the storm is moving slowly west-northwest with a central pressure of 965 hPa and maximum wind speeds of 45 m/s. The typhoon is expected to intensify, potentially reaching a very strong status with maximum gusts of 70 m/s.

Forecasts indicate the typhoon may approach Guam and Saipan between October 30 and 31. While current models suggest the storm might be carried eastward by westerlies, there is significant uncertainty regarding its path. If it turns northward over the weekend, it could impact the Ogasawara Islands.

Meteorologists warn that even if the typhoon transitions into an extratropical cyclone, it will remain a “dangerous mass of rain.” High sea temperatures and the presence of an autumn rain front may allow the storm to maintain strength or cause heavy rainfall in areas far from the center, including parts of Japan.