Typhoons in the Western Pacific: A Growing Concern
Two typhoons, Ragasa and Neoguri, have rapidly strengthened in the western Pacific over the weekend, with Ragasa becoming the season’s first super typhoon. According to satellite imagery, a distinct eye has formed in Ragasa, indicating its potential to cause significant damage. The cyclone, known in the Philippines as “Nando,” reached typhoon status on Saturday and is expected to reach the equivalent of a Category 4 hurricane by the start of the workweek.
Tracking the Tropics
The worst of the weather is expected to stay south of Taiwan but clip the northern Philippines as the system moves westward into the South China Sea. Satellite observations estimate that water temperatures are in the range of 82–88 degrees Fahrenheit ahead of the cyclone, which is considered sufficient to allow for significant intensification. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects the system’s final landfall to occur somewhere west of Hong Kong, and due to its slow forward movement, it may produce several feet of rainfall over countries such as Vietnam and Laos.
Tracking the tropics
(FOX Weather)
Super Typhoon Status
While the definition of a super typhoon varies among meteorological organizations, most use the benchmark of sustained wind speeds of at least 150 mph, which is the equivalent to a strong Category 4 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Ragasa and Neoguri are the 18th and 19th named storms to form in the basin during what has been a slow and delayed start to the season. According to computer models, additional tropical disturbances are expected to develop during the coming weeks, but fortunately, none appear as impactful as Ragasa.
Forecast cone
(FOX Weather)
Annular Appearance
In addition to Ragasa, Neoguri is also expected to become a powerful typhoon, but because of its more northern latitude in the western Pacific, it will mostly remain a concern only for marine interests. Neoguri is expected to become more annular in appearance, meaning its eye and central dense overcast will resemble a tire or a doughnut in shape. An annular appearance typically means that a cyclone is resistant to environmental factors, such as dry air and hostile upper-level winds, which can help prolong the system’s lifespan.
WHAT IS AN ANNULAR STYLE OF HURRICANE?
Community Involvement
Brandon and Landon Aydlett, twin brothers from North Carolina, have spent the past several years in Guam, where they are mainstays of social media messaging and a critical lifeline to the U.S. territory when the tropics get active, such as with Typhoon Bolaven.
For more information on tracking the tropics and staying up-to-date with the latest weather news, visit Here
Image Source: www.foxweather.com
