Tropical Storm Usagi Emerges: Potential Impact on Taiwan Being Assessed
Tropical Storm Usagi has formed in the Western Pacific, with its path potentially affecting Taiwan and prompting alerts in the Philippines. The storm is currently moving west-northwest and is expected to intensify. The Central Weather Administration is monitoring its trajectory, which may lead to warnings being issued for Taiwan. This occurrence marks the first instance of four tropical storms simultaneously present in November since 1994.
Tropical Storm Usagi has formed in the Western Pacific, becoming the fourth such storm in just over a week and prompting alerts in the Philippines and potential concerns for Taiwan. At 8 a.m. on Tuesday, the storm was located approximately 660 km northwest of the Yap Islands with a substantial radius of 80 kilometers. Presently moving west-northwest at 27 kilometers per hour, Usagi is characterized by maximum sustained winds of 72 kph and gusts peaking at 101 kph. Forecasts indicate that by Wednesday morning, Usagi could be 760 km east of Manila, approximately 1,060 km southeast of Cape Eluanbi, Taiwan. While original projections varied, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) in Taiwan has indicated a shifting trajectory towards the north, which could necessitate sea warnings for areas near Taiwan this Thursday. The forecaster, Chen Pei-an, commented on uncertainty regarding whether Usagi will navigate toward the Bashi Channel or to the northern waters of Taiwan. In light of the forecast, the Philippines, which has already issued an advisory through its Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), remains vigilant. The agency suggests that Usagi may impact northern and central Luzon as early as Thursday evening. It is anticipated that the storm will continue to intensify over the next few days and could reach typhoon status. This marks a noteworthy moment in meteorological history, as this instance represents the first occurrence of four tropical disturbances simultaneously present in the Pacific during November, with previous storms Yinxing, Toraji, and Man-yi also recorded in recent memory. The CWA has also issued a heavy rain advisory for parts of northern Taiwan, specifically areas around New Taipei and Keelung, as well as mountainous regions in Taipei and Yilan County, effective until Tuesday evening. Furthermore, the concurrent existence of four tropical storms is a rare phenomenon, with the last instance occurring in October 1994. Taiwan is preparing for potential impacts from Usagi, urging residents to stay informed of updates as the situation develops.
Tropical Storm Usagi has emerged as the fourth cyclone in the Western Pacific within a short span of ten days, prompting alerts in neighboring countries. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) monitors this storm closely, analyzing its trajectory and potential effects on Taiwan, where uncertainties remain due to its shifting pathway. This storm’s formation also represents a rare meteorological anomaly, as it coincides with three other active tropical systems, a phenomenon not witnessed since 1994.
In conclusion, Tropical Storm Usagi presents a potential threat to Taiwan as meteorologists continue to monitor its path and strength. The storm has already prompted precautionary measures in the Philippines. Residents of Taiwan are advised to stay alert to updates concerning possible impacts from the storm, especially as it is projected to intensify and alter its course in the upcoming days. The ongoing situation highlights the importance of vigilance in the face of rapidly changing weather conditions in the Pacific region.
Original Source: focustaiwan.tw
