Super Typhoon Songda (Chedeng) Update #15

Super Typhoon Songda (Chedeng) is now making its closest point of approach (CPA) to Northeast Luzon. It was last located approximately 280km east of Aparri, Cagayan. Maximum sustained winds remain at 260kph with gusts reaching up to 315kph. Songda is moving NNW-ward at 20kph. Tropical storm force winds extends as far away as eastern Cagayan and Isabela. Outer rainbands continue to affect these provinces including Aurora.

As of 5am this morning, Signal #2 is in effect for Batanes Group of Islands. Signal#1 for Cagayan, Calayan Group of Islands, Babuyan Islands, Isabela, Quirino, Aurora, Northern Quezon, and Polilio Islands.

Right now looking at the latest IR imagery, we think that STY Songda has now reached its peak intensity. Convection has begun to wane and the eye on the visual imagery is also beginning to be cloud filled. Nevertheless, we think Songda will remain a powerful Super Typhoon throughout today. By 12pm today, it should be within 250-300km east of Basco, Batanes. This area and the surrounding islands will experience strong winds occasional heavy rains and rough waves with heights reaching 2m. It should then start turning northeast towards Okinawa.

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Issued (2330 UTC) 730am PhT 052711