List of storms named Saola explained

The name Saola has been used to name four tropical cyclones in the northwestern Pacific Ocean. The name was contributed by Vietnam and refers to the saola, a rarely observed bovine species first found in Vietnam.

• Typhoon Saola (2005) (T0517, 18W) – did not affect land
• Typhoon Saola (2012) (T1209, 10W, Gener) – a costly tropical cyclone that affected the Philippines, Taiwan, and mainland China
• Severe Tropical Storm Saola (2017) (T1722, 27W, Quedan) – passed closely near Japan but still caused moderate damages.
• Typhoon Saola (2023) (T2309, 09W, Goring) – a powerful typhoon that passed close to Babuyan Islands, Southern China including Hong Kong.

The name Saola was retired after the 2023 season. Its replacement name will be announced in 2025.^[1]

Notes and References

1. Web site: LIST OF RETIRED TROPICAL CYCLONE NAMES . March 12, 2024 . Typhoon Committee.