Champi reportedly reached sustained winds of 184 mph, briefly surpassing Hurricane Polo as 2026’s strongest tropical cyclone by wind speed. Polo retained the lower central pressure, a separate measure of intensity. After passing near Guam, Champi first reached Category 5-equivalent strength on October 17, then repeatedly regained that level. Ocean temperatures around 86°F, abundant moisture and low wind shear helped transform it from a tropical storm into an exceptionally powerful typhoon in less than two days.

Taiwan issued land and sea warnings, canceled more than 100 flights and suspended ferry services while officials checked flood defenses. President Lai Ching-te urged early preparation and advised residents to avoid mountainous and coastal areas. Japan also faced flight cancellations, while the U.S.-Japan Keen Sword military exercise adjusted activities for safety. Although less favorable conditions were expected to reduce Champi’s intensity farther north, its broad wind field left communities confronting serious risks from flooding, destructive gusts and hazardous surf.