Typhoon Muifa (Kabayan) Update #24

Typhoon Muifa (Bagyong Kabayan) has finally exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility while moving closer to Okinawa. Muifa is now located 140km south southeast of Okinawa and has been moving westward very slowly (10kph) for the last 12 hours. Maximum sustained winds have decreased slightly to 155kph gusting to 195kph.

Latest reports from around Okinawa indicate tropical storm-force sustained winds and gusts reaching typhoon-force. Strongest gusts just an hour ago range from 120-140kph while sustained winds range from 80-100kph. Bands of moderate to heavy rain are also affecting Okinawa as of this moment with rates of 20-30mm/hr and with isolated pockets of 50mm/hr. Naha Airport has already reported 70mm of rain this past 12 hours and we expect that figure to continue rising.

Latest radar image from JMA

The slow movement of Muifa will definitely prolong the strong winds and heavy rain in the island. Furthermore, we are still expecting the peak winds to be felt by around 10am Japan time as Muifa will be as close as 120km of the island. Reports of power outages already so please please STAY SAFE!

Winds are forecast to begin weakening in the island by late afternoon today. The medium to long term forecast, meanwhile, still pointing to a close brush with Shanghai later this weekend.

Here is JMA's website for the latest on Muifa and warnings and wind and rain reports.

JMA

We will have another update by 12pm today.
_______________________________________
Issued (2230 UTC) 630am PhT 080511