Typhoon Sonca Update #6

Typhoon Sonca has strengthened into a Category-2 Typhoon today as it moves well east of Honshu. It was last located approximately 450km east southeast of Tokyo. Maximum sustained winds are now at 155kph gusting to 195kph. Sonca is moving northward at 30kph.

This latest radar image from JMA shows the outer rain bands from Sonca. These bands are not really expected to affect Honshu although Sonca will still bring strong waves and rip currents throughout today and into tomorrow. Please consult JMA for the latest marine warnings.

Radar image from JMA, for more images click HERE

The ragged eye is still perfectly visible on the latest satellite imagery although it is somewhat cloud-filled, particularly on the lower levels. Convective activity continues on all quadrans but has weakened somewhat over the past 6 hours.

VIS Image from NRLMRY

We do think Sonca is now reaching its peak intensity and should begin to weaken today due to stronger shear and cooler sea temperatures. Nevertheless, it will likely maintain typhoon intensity untill tomorrow by which time it is forecast to also start transitioning into an extra-tropical cyclone.

We'll have more on Sonca and its track later today!
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Issued (2330 UTC) 730am PhT 091911