Tropical Storm Toraji Update #1

Issued (1530 UTC) 1130pm PhT 090213
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A new Tropical Cyclone has formed in the East China Sea. Tropical Storm Toraji is the 15th named cyclone in the Western Pacific this year. It was last located approximately 180km northwest of Okinawa. Maximum sustained winds near the center are around 75kph with gusts of up to 95kph. TS Toraji is moving northeastward at 10kph.

IR Image from NRLMRY

Latest satellite image shows Toraji continuing to consolidate as it moves across the East China Sea. Curved banding is very apparent in the satellite analysis and convective activity is improving as well. Toraji's poleward outflow is also getting better and is currently aided by the trough draped across Eastern Asia.

Radar Image from JMA

 Latest radar image out of the Ryukyu Islands of Japan shows scattered light to moderate rains associated with the outer bands of Toraji. These rains may impact Okinawa, Amami, and nearby islands tonight and into tomorrow. However, the bulk of widespread rains is expected to remain offshore and may impact Kyushu later this week. For the latest radar images, warnings, and forecasts from Japan, click HERE (JMA)

Tropical Storm Toraji will continue to move slowly to the northeast over the next few days, intensifying slightly but not to a Typhoon intensity. By Thursday, Toraji is forecast to make landfall in Kyushu and could rapidly become extra-tropical as it moves into the baroclinic zone. Heavy rains, strong winds, and high waves are expected across the region in the coming days.

We'll have another update tomorrow morning.