Typhoon Dolphin was the thirteenth storm, fifth typhoon and third violent typhoon of the 2026 Pacific typhoon season. It made landfall in China and dumped rain onto Northern Taiwan before dissipating into oblivion. In this blog, we will share some memories of this storm and its impact on Taiwan.
Storm Formation and Path
Typhoon Dolphin became a depression on July 26th, 2026. On July 28th, it strengthened into a Typhoon and quickly intensified to a Category 4 Typhoon. 14 people were killed due to the storm, but none in Taiwan.
Early forecast models predicted that the storm would track north of Taiwan, which is what happened.
Originally, the track for the Typhoon showed that it would move fast and strong toward Taiwan.
The track pretty much stayed steady, predicting the Typhoon would go north of Taiwan.
However, the Typhoon looked menacing as it tracked west.
This Typhoon stayed on its predicted path.
The Typhoon made landfall in China above the Matsu Islands.
As you can see from this radar shot, Taiwan was pummeled with rain.
Full track for the Typhoon.
My Experience
In Taipei was wet and windy, but there was not much damage. However, I had friends in Shanghai who got the day off from work, but were trapped inside as water leaked through their walls and underneath their floorboards. Luckily the houses are built better in Taipei.
Rainfall Totals
Over 400 mm of rain fell in central Taiwan due to the Typhoon, which is not a whole lot compared with other Typhoons.
Radar Track and Rainfall Totals
Safety Precautions During a Typhoon
- Secure loose outside objects
- If you live on the first floor of a flood-prone area, move as many valuables and important objects to higher floors as possible.
- Park your car/scooter on high ground
- Avoid going outside for your safety
- Stay out of the mountains
- Stay away from the ocean
- Have enough dry food and water ready for three days (72 hours) in case water and electricity are cut off.
If you follow the above rules, most Typhoons in Taiwan will not be dangerous. Also, most buildings in Taiwan are built with reinforced concrete that can withstand even the strongest winds, so stay indoors and you will be fine.
Conclusion
This was a small storm and died quickly after dumping a moderate amount of heavy rain on southern Taiwan for about 24 hours. This storm is sure to be quickly forgotten in Taiwan, but we are all grateful it did not turn out to be worse.
For more Typhoon history, check out our full 2024 Taiwan Typhoon Season post here and our 2025 Taiwan Typhoon Season post here.
