Typhoon Bopha (Bagyong Pablo) Update #26

Typhoon Bopha (Bagyong Pablo) is beginning to weaken as it nears the western parts of Luzon. The storm was last located approximately 360km west northwest of Dagupan City. Maximum sustained winds are now down to 195kph with gusts of up to 240kph. Bopha is moving northeastward at 15kph.

IR Image from NRLMRY

Latest satellite image shows the system beginning to feel the effects of stronger upper level winds. It doesn't look as symmetrical as yesterday and convective activity has also weakened slightly. Hints of the eye still remain but it's not as clear as yesterday either. Nevertheless, the storm's eyewall remains fully intact and dry air doesn't seem to be significantly impacting the system just yet.

Bopha is still too far to bring stormy conditions across Luzon. However, some light rains are possible beginning tonight across the western sections particularly in Ilocos Region; mainly light rains although up to 50mm are possible. Bopha will move much nearer by tomorrow but we expect it to begin weakening to a Tropical Storm as dry air and an increase in wind shear will disrupt its organization. Nevertheless, there is a possibility that Bopha's proximity will result into some provinces being put under Signal Warnings from PAGASA. Residents here should remain alert for possible effects from the storm over the next few days.

We'll have more updates later this afternoon.
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Issued (0130 UTC) 930am PhT 120812