TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Tropical Storm Jangmi is likely to pass east of Taiwan over the Pacific Ocean, though its effects on the country’s weather should not be underestimated, reports said Wednesday.

The tropical depression turned into the sixth tropical storm of the season Wednesday morning, the Liberty Times reported. While the likelihood it would head toward Taiwan was diminishing, weather experts said it could still affect the country.

From its current position east of the Philippines, it was likely to move north and strengthen into a typhoon. The storm was expected to reach southern Japan around June 2 or 3.

Strong winds and high waves will occur east, southeast, and north of Taiwan and in the Taiwan Strait from May 31 to June 2, experts said. Vessels should watch for waves 1.5 to 2.5 meters high.

The strength of a high-pressure area nearby will determine how close to Taiwan the storm moves. Depending on the pressure, Jangmi might turn toward Japan earlier than expected, reducing its impact on Taiwan.