Tropical Depression Wukong Update #9

Tropical Depression Wukong is starting to weaken once again as it moves across the South China Sea. The system was last located approximately 520km southeast of Ho Chi Minh Ctiy. Maximum sustained winds have decreased to 45kph with gusts of up to 65kph. Wukong is moving west southwestward at 25kph.

IR Image from NRLMRY

Latest satellite image shows the impressive convective activity that we observed earlier this morning has weakened. Moderate wind shear and some dry air seems to have caused the weakening. However, wind shear is forecast to get lighter so we will continue to watch this system if it makes one more push of intensification by tonight.

Either way, Wukong isn't really posing any serious threats for Southern Vietnam other than maybe some light rain showers. In fact, Japan Meteorological Agency has already given their final TC Warning for Wukong. JTWC, on the other hand, is still issuing regular bulletins and expects Wukong to continue moving west southwestward and could potentially dissipate altogether by tomorrow (Saturday).

As for the Philippines, only the northern portions of Luzon are forecast to see moderate rains over the next day or so. The combined effects of the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) and the easterlies are enhancing light to moderate rains in the eastern part of Luzon, particularly in the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, and Aurora. Some areas here could receive up to 50mm of rain over the next 24 to 36 hours.

We'll have another update tomorrow.
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Issued (09 UTC) 5pm PhT 122812