Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Typhoon Hagupit (Pre-Ruby) Update #3

Issued (08 UTC) 4pm PhT 120314
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Hagupit (Future Bagyong Ruby) has rapidly intensified into a Major Category 3 Typhoon. It is now lashing the island of Yap with the center just 60km south of Yap or about 440km northeast of Palau. Maximum sustained winds are now at 185kph with gusts of up to 230kph. Typhoon Hagupit is moving west northwestward at 30kph.

The National Weather Service has issued Typhoon Warning for Yap and a Tropical Storm Warning for Palau. Please heed the warnings and always follow the instructions from your local officials!

IR Image from NRLMRY

 
Latest satellite image shows the central dense overcast moving very near the island of Yap. Winds of up to 160kph are possible over the next 1 to 2 hours. Heavy rains and high waves will also lash the said islands. Even Palau will see tropical storm winds of up to 85kph along with bands of light to moderate rains tonight.

Typhoon Hagupit continues to move in an area of highly favorable environment with weak wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures. It will likely intensify for another 24 to 48 hours with a possibility of attaining Super Typhoon status by tomorrow.

Forecast Track (NOT OFFICIAL!)

 
Unfortunately, computer models are starting to converge on a track and it's not good for the Philippines. While there is still a chance that Hagupit recurves to the north, the consensus is now for the typhoon to head west and possibly hit parts of Visayas beginning Saturday. At this early stage, we urge everyone along the eastern seaboard from Luzon all the way to Mindanao to pay close attention to the forecast over the next 2 to 3 days. Always follow the precautionary measures set by your local government and always consult with the official forecast from PAGASA.

We'll have another update later tonight.

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