From Typhoon Dim-sum to frogs and snakes: Asia’s cyclones feature unusual names

Asia's cyclones now feature an eclectic mix of names, including the unexpected addition of "Dim-sum," inspired by the popular Chinese snack. The Typhoon Committee, an intergovernmental body, maintains a list of 140 names for tropical cyclones in the western North Pacific and South China Sea, with names generally reused unless a particularly destructive storm leads to its retirement.

In 2026, nine new names were added to the list, ranging from food to animals, plants, greetings, and geographical terms. North Korea contributed "Gaeguri," meaning frog, while Vietnam's "Hoaban" refers to a flower found in the country's mountains. Micronesia chose "Tirou," a respectful greeting in Chuukese culture, and Japan supplied "Hebi," meaning snake, and "Tomo," meaning stern.

Cambodia selected "Koki," the name of a large tree, while the Republic of Korea contributed "Narae," meaning the wing of a bird or insect. Thailand's contribution, "Burapha," means East. Together with Hong Kong's "Dim-sum," they make up the nine newly approved names.

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