Typhoon Fung-wong Weakens to Extratropical Cyclone, Okinawa and Amami Remain on Alert

Typhoon No. 26, named Fung-wong, has weakened and is in the process of transitioning into an extratropical cyclone as it moves near Japan. Despite this weakening, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and other authorities have maintained warnings for residents in Okinawa and the Amami region, urging continued vigilance against potential hazards including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and high waves.

Typhoon's Trajectory and Weakening

Typhoon Fung-wong initially formed around November 4, 2025, and intensified significantly, reaching its highest wind speed of 132 mph (Category 4 equivalent) near the Philippines on November 9, 2025. The storm then tracked westward, with forecasts indicating a turn northeastward after passing Taiwan. By November 12, 2025, the typhoon was moving north-northeast through the Bashi Channel. The weakening trend was anticipated as the system moved over cooler waters and interacted with other weather systems, leading to its expected transition into an extratropical cyclone by November 14, 2025.

Continued Warnings for Japanese Islands

Even as Fung-wong loses its tropical characteristics, its remnants are still capable of bringing significant weather impacts. The JMA has specifically cautioned the Nansei Islands, including Okinawa and the Amami region, about the lingering threats. Residents are advised to prepare for:

• Heavy rainfall, which could lead to localized flooding and landslides.
• Strong winds, particularly in coastal areas.
• High waves and rough seas, posing risks to marine activities and coastal communities.

The Sakishima Islands, including Ishigaki and Miyakojima, along with other southern islands like Yonaguni, Kikaijima, Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, Okinoerabu, and Yoron, have also been identified as areas of concern.

Travel Disruptions and Airline Measures

In anticipation of the typhoon's effects, major airlines implemented special measures for travelers. All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) offered ticket changes, rebookings, or refunds without fees for flights to and from affected areas. These measures were in effect for flights impacting Okinawa/Naha, Miyako, Ishigaki, and Yonaguni on November 12 and 13, 2025, and extended to other islands like Kikaijima and Amami Oshima on November 13, 2025, due to the evolving weather conditions and the extratropical cyclone.

Outlook

While the immediate threat of a powerful typhoon has diminished, the transition to an extratropical cyclone means that a broad area of low pressure continues to influence the weather patterns across southern Japan. Authorities emphasize the importance of staying informed through official weather updates as the system fully dissipates and its residual impacts are monitored.