Strongest storm of 2026 barrels across Philippines Sea bringing 175mph winds

Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today. Join today Already a member? Log in Strongest storm of 2026 barrels across Philippines Sea bringing 175mph winds Shweta Sharma Thursday 22 October 2026 09:03 BST Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks Close popover Super Typhoon Champi hit Keelung in northern Taiwan ( AP ) Super Typhoon Champi, the strongest storm of the year with sustained winds of up to 185mph, is barrelling towards Taiwan , China , and the Philippines . Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration has issued sea and land warnings, with the typhoon expected to affect the island most severely on Friday and Saturday. Airlines have cancelled nearly 125 flights in Taiwan, while ferry services and tourist attractions have been suspended as disaster preparations step up. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has urged the public to prepare for the storm without delay and avoid visiting coastal or mountainous areas. Chinese authorities are planning evacuations in eastern provinces, while the Philippines has issued warnings for waves of up to 12 metres along its northern coasts. In full Taiwan cancels over 100 flights as Super Typhoon Champi churns towards island with 140mph winds