Published on 23 October 2026
Super Typhoon Champi generated waves reaching around 10 metres east of the Philippines as it crossed the Philippine Sea on 21 October 2026. Copernicus Marine Service data reveal the extraordinary sea state surrounding one of the strongest tropical cyclones of the year.
Known locally as Rosal, Champi reached the equivalent of Category 5 intensity, with maximum sustained winds of 296 km/h – the highest recorded for any tropical cyclone worldwide in 2026. At the time, the storm was located roughly 850 km east of northern Luzon.
Copernicus Marine Service data show waves spiralling anticlockwise around Super Typhoon Champi on 21 October 2026. Near the storm’s centre, significant wave heights reached around 10 metres.
Image: European Union, Copernicus Marine Service data
Significant wave height represents the average height of the highest one-third of waves and is a standard measure of sea conditions. Around Champi’s centre, the most extreme values appear in dark red, highlighting a highly dangerous marine environment.
Copernicus Marine Service observations and forecasts help monitor extreme ocean conditions like these, supporting maritime safety, storm-impact assessment and coastal preparedness before and during severe tropical cyclones.
Based on: EU Space, Super Typhoon Champi generates 10-metre waves east of the Philippines, 22 October 2026.