Tropical Update

A tropical disturbance, Invest 97W, has been affecting much of Mindanao since early this morning. So far, Hinatuan is reporting 68mm of rain from the system and more could be on the way. 97W was last located approximately 90km east of Mati City or about 160km east southeast of Davao City. Maximum sustained winds are about 30kph.

Recent observations from Davao Airport show a steady decrease in atmospheric pressure (from 1012mb this morning to 1008mb as of 4pm) which indicates the approaching system. The IR Image below also shows the apparent location of the center as well as the rainbands associated with the LPA.

IR Image from NRLMRY

Due to the proximity of Invest 97W to the island, we are not expecting it to develop into a cyclone. (Please do note that JMA is actually classifying this as a Tropical Depression, albeit not on their TC page). Nevertheless, as the system continues to move closer to Mindanao, expect widespread light to moderate rains to continue for the next 24 to 36 hours. There could be as much as 100 to 150mm of rain in many places once the rain ends by Tuesday.

We'll have another update on 97W tomorrow.
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Issued (09 UTC) 5pm PhT 042912