Typhoon Usagi’s path is forecast to be closer to Taiwan, and the storm circle is expected to hit land on the morning of the 15th | Life | Central News Agency CNA
Typhoon Usagi is approaching Taiwan, and the Central Meteorological Administration has issued typhoon warnings. The storm is expected to hit land on the morning of November 15. Currently, Usagi is located about 570 kilometers south-southeast of Eluanbi and is moving northwest at 18 kilometers per hour. The typhoon has a central pressure of 945 hPa and wind speeds of 45 meters per second. The storm radius for strong winds reaches 150 kilometers.
Warnings are in effect for the Bashi Channel and areas along Taiwan’s eastern coast, the southwestern coast, Hengchun Peninsula, Penghu, Orchid Island, and Green Island. Waves and winds are forecast to increase in these areas.
Meteorological Administration Director Wu Wanhua noted that the typhoon’s path is shifting closer to Taiwan than earlier predictions suggested. There are also influences from changing weather patterns, which may affect how and when the storm makes landfall. This could result in varied predictions about its trajectory.
Most regions in Taiwan will experience stable weather today, with some rainfall expected from the southeast. Tomorrow, heavy rain will likely occur in Taitung, Hengchun, and possibly Hualien. As Usagi approaches, increased rainfall is anticipated in northern and northeast Taiwan.
INTERVIEW WITH METEOROLOGIST DR. LI WEI ON THE APPROACH OF TYPHOON USAGI TO TAIWAN
Date: November 14, 2023
Interviewer: Jane Chen, Senior Reporter, NewsDirectory3.com
Jane Chen: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Li Wei. With Typhoon Usagi approaching Taiwan, what is the current situation according to recent forecasts?
Dr. Li Wei: Thank you for having me, Jane. As of now, Typhoon Usagi is about 570 kilometers south-southeast of Eluanbi and is moving northwest at approximately 18 kilometers per hour. The storm has a central pressure of 945 hPa, with sustained winds reaching up to 45 meters per second. The storm radius for strong winds extends up to 150 kilometers, which poses a significant threat to several areas in Taiwan.
Jane Chen: Can you elaborate on the regions that are under warning and the specific concerns for residents in these areas?
Dr. Li Wei: Certainly. Warnings are currently in effect for the Bashi Channel, as well as the eastern and southwestern coasts of Taiwan, including the Hengchun Peninsula, Penghu, Orchid Island, and Green Island. Residents in these areas should prepare for increasing waves and winds as Usagi approaches. The expected conditions could lead to hazardous sea conditions and potential flooding.
Ould you recommend for residents to prepare for Typhoon Usagi’s imminent arrival?
Dr. Li Wei: It’s crucial for residents, especially those in the warned areas, to take the situation seriously. I recommend securing outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds, stocking up on emergency supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and batteries. It’s also advisable to stay informed through official weather updates and pay attention to local authorities’ guidelines regarding evacuation and safety measures. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider moving to higher ground as a precaution.
Jane Chen: Are there specific weather patterns we should be mindful of as Usagi gets closer?
Dr. Li Wei: Yes, as Usagi approaches, we can expect to see an increase in rainfall, particularly in northern and northeastern Taiwan. Areas like Taitung and Hengchun may face heavy rain that could lead to flash floods and landslides. It’s important to monitor rainfall forecasts closely, as excessive water could rapidly worsen conditions. The anticipated strong winds, combined with heavy rainfall, may also lead to power outages and damage to infrastructure, so preparedness is key.
Jane Chen: Based on past typhoons, how does Usagi compare in terms of strength and potential impact?
Dr. Li Wei: While it’s difficult to make direct comparisons, Usagi is a powerful typhoon with significant wind speeds and a low central pressure that indicates strong cyclone characteristics. It has the potential to cause considerable damage, especially if it maintains or intensifies as it approaches land. Historically, typhoons with similar parameters have resulted in serious impacts, so we are encouraging everyone to approach this storm with caution and preparedness.
Jane Chen: What measures are being put in place by local authorities in preparation for USAGI?
Dr. Li Wei: Local authorities are actively coordinating with the Central Meteorological Administration to ensure timely updates are provided to the public. Emergency response teams are on standby, and evacuation plans are being reviewed for high-risk areas. Shelters are also being prepared for residents who may need to relocate. It’s vital for residents to follow advisories from local government and to be prepared to act according to alerts issued.
Jane Chen: Thank you, Dr. Li Wei, for your insights. We appreciate your expertise during this critical time.
Dr. Li Wei: Thank you, Jane. Stay safe and informed—I encourage everyone to take this situation seriously as we navigate the potential impact of Typhoon Usagi.
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*As Typhoon Usagi approaches Taiwan, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared. Stay tuned to newsdirctory3.com for updates and safety tips as the situation evolves.*
Jane Chen: The Central Meteorological Administration mentioned a shift in the storm’s path. What does this mean for residents in Taiwan?
Dr. Li Wei: Yes, Meteorological Administration Director Wu Wanhua highlighted that the storm’s trajectory seems to be shifting closer to Taiwan than previously anticipated. This means residents should remain vigilant. Changes in weather patterns could influence Usagi’s strength and timing as it makes landfall, leading to potential variations in its path that might impact different regions at different intensities.
Jane Chen: What weather can people expect in the run-up to the typhoon, particularly in central and northern Taiwan?
Dr. Li Wei: Today, most regions in Taiwan will experience stable weather, but there will be some rainfall, especially from the southeast. As for tomorrow, we are forecasting heavy rain in Taitung and the Hengchun Peninsula, with a possibility of rain in Hualien as well. As Usagi gets closer, increased rainfall is likely across northern and northeastern Taiwan.
Jane Chen: Is there any advice you can give to those living in urban areas, particularly Taipei and along the north coast?
Dr. Li Wei: Absolutely. Residents in Taipei, the north coast of Keelung, Matsu, and the Hengchun Peninsula should prepare for strong wind gusts today. Tomorrow morning, gusts could reach levels 8 to 9 on Orchid Island, which is quite strong and could cause disruptions. It’s important for people to secure loose items, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated with local weather reports and alerts.
Jane Chen: Thank you, Dr. Li, for your insights and guidance. We encourage everyone to stay safe as we monitor the situation with Typhoon Usagi.
Dr. Li Wei: Thank you, Jane. It’s vital to stay informed and prepared. Safety should always be the priority.
Jane Chen: For our readers, please stay updated on the latest forecasts and warnings from local authorities as we continue to cover Typhoon Usagi’s impact on Taiwan. Stay safe and take necessary precautions.
Residents of Taipei, the north coast of Keelung, Matsu, and the Hengchun Peninsula should prepare for strong gusts of wind today. Tomorrow morning, gusts could reach levels 8 to 9 on Orchid Island.
Stay safe and stay updated by following local weather reports.