Typhoon Doksuri: A Retrospective Analysis of the 2023 Super Typhoon
Formation and Meteorological History
Typhoon Doksuri, known in the Philippines as Super Typhoon Egay, originated from a tropical disturbance east of the Philippines in mid-July 2023. It rapidly intensified into a tropical storm on July 21 and reached typhoon strength by July 23. Doksuri underwent explosive intensification, becoming a super typhoon with maximum sustained winds of 195 km/h (121 mph) and gusts up to 240 km/h (149 mph). The storm made landfall twice in the Philippines: first on Fuga Island and then on Dalapuri Island in Cagayan Province on July 26. After exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility, it weakened slightly but remained a powerful typhoon as it traversed the South China Sea, making landfall in Fujian, China, on July 28 as a severe tropical storm. The remnants of Doksuri then moved inland, causing catastrophic flooding in northern China, particularly in Beijing, Hebei, and Jilin provinces.
Impact and Damages
Philippines
Doksuri was the strongest typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2023. It affected over 2.9 million individuals across 13 regions. The storm caused at least 27 deaths, 20 missing persons, and 52 injuries. Widespread flooding and landslides destroyed thousands of homes, with over 250,000 people displaced. The agricultural sector suffered heavily, with damage to crops and infrastructure estimated at over PHP 1.5 billion. The storm also caused the sinking of the MB Aya Express, a passenger boat, resulting in additional casualties.
China
In China, Doksuri brought torrential rains and severe flooding, particularly in Beijing, Hebei, and Fujian provinces. Over 880,000 people were affected in Fujian alone, with more than 354,000 evacuated. In Beijing and Hebei, at least 20 people died, and 27 were missing. The floods caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power lines. Economic losses were estimated at billions of yuan. The Chinese government issued a red alert and mobilized extensive relief efforts.
Taiwan
Taiwan experienced heavy rainfall and strong winds, with over 5,700 people evacuated from flood- and landslide-prone areas. The storm caused minor damage and no direct fatalities.
Vietnam
Doksuri weakened as it approached Vietnam, but its remnants brought heavy rains and gusty winds to northern Vietnam, causing localized flooding and minor damage.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
Philippines
The Philippine government, through the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), coordinated response efforts. Evacuation centers were set up, and relief goods were distributed. International aid, including from Canada and the Humanitarian Coalition, provided shelter kits, clean water, and psychosocial support.
China
China's national observatory issued a red alert, the highest level. The government evacuated hundreds of thousands of people and deployed military and emergency personnel for rescue and relief operations. Financial assistance and reconstruction efforts were initiated.
Taiwan
Taiwan's weather bureau issued warnings and facilitated evacuations. No major relief operations were needed.
Vietnam
Vietnam's disaster management authorities monitored the storm and issued warnings, but the impact was limited.
Conclusion
Typhoon Doksuri was a devastating storm that highlighted the vulnerability of coastal and inland regions to extreme weather events. The coordinated response efforts in affected countries helped mitigate the loss of life, but the economic and social impacts were profound.