Tropical Storm Mekkhala Update: Current Status, Impacts Across Taiwan and Japan
Published: June 26, 2026
Tropical Storm Mekkhala continues to move northeast across the western Pacific after bringing heavy rainfall, flooding, and dangerous weather to parts of Taiwan. While the storm has weakened from its earlier typhoon intensity, it remains a significant weather system capable of producing flooding rains, rough surf, and strong winds across portions of southern and central Japan.
Current Status
As of Friday, June 26, Tropical Storm Mekkhala is located south of Japan and tracking northeast at approximately 21 mph. Maximum sustained winds are near 40 mph, indicating the system has weakened but still maintains tropical storm strength. (Weather Underground)
Meteorologists continue to monitor the storm as it interacts with another nearby tropical system, increasing the potential for widespread heavy rainfall across Japan.
Taiwan Experiences Flooding
Before approaching Japan, Mekkhala produced torrential rainfall across Taiwan, resulting in:
- Urban flooding
- Mudslides in some locations
- Flooded roads and parking structures
- Cleanup operations underway in several communities
Emergency crews have been working to clear debris while residents assess damage from flash flooding caused by intense rainfall. (Reuters Connect)
Japan Preparing for Heavy Rain
Japan remains under heightened alert as Mekkhala combines with seasonal moisture to produce:
- Torrential rainfall
- Flash flooding
- Landslide potential
- Dangerous surf
- Gusty winds
- Transportation disruptions
Authorities have issued evacuation advisories in vulnerable areas, and portions of the rail network and flights have experienced delays or cancellations due to the worsening weather. (AP News)
Okinawa and Military Installations
U.S. military installations on Okinawa entered an elevated tropical cyclone readiness condition as the storm approached the region. Base officials implemented storm preparations to protect personnel and equipment from strong winds and heavy rainfall. (Stars and Stripes)
Forecast
Forecast guidance indicates Mekkhala will continue moving northeast while gradually weakening. Even as winds decrease, the storm’s greatest threat remains its extensive tropical moisture, which is expected to generate additional flooding rainfall across parts of Japan through the weekend. Areas with saturated soils remain especially vulnerable to flash flooding and landslides. (AP News)
Safety Reminders
Residents within the storm’s path should:
- Monitor forecasts and official weather advisories.
- Avoid flooded roads and waterways.
- Prepare for localized power outages.
- Secure loose outdoor objects.
- Stay away from rough coastal waters and large surf.
- Be ready to evacuate if instructed by local authorities.
Radar Watch HQ will continue monitoring Tropical Storm Mekkhala and provide updates as the system moves across Japan and conditions evolve.
