TOKYO - A large and extremely strong Typhoon No. 4 (Sinlaku) was tracking north-northwest near the Mariana Islands as of April 15, with forecasters warning of high waves exceeding 4 meters around the Ogasawara Islands later this week despite a low likelihood of a direct approach to Japan.
According to the latest weather data, the typhoon was located near the Mariana Islands at around 3 a.m. on April 15, moving slowly northward. Its central atmospheric pressure stood at 925 hectopascals, while maximum sustained winds near the center reached 50 meters per second, with gusts of up to 70 meters per second, maintaining its status as a large and very strong storm.
After passing through the Mariana Islands, the typhoon is expected to gradually shift course from northward to northeastward. From Thursday, April 16, through around Sunday, April 19, it is forecast to accelerate while curving farther to the northeast, eventually moving away from the Japanese archipelago and steadily weakening.
Typhoon No. 4 is expected to move gradually northward and weaken somewhat by around Friday, April 17. Although forecast to pass some distance from the Ogasawara Islands, the storm is still likely to bring significant coastal impacts.
Swells generated by the typhoon are expected to intensify around the Ogasawara Islands, with wave heights exceeding 4 meters forecast between April 17 and April 18. Strong winds are also expected to affect the area.
Meteorologists warn that the incoming swells could create hazardous sea conditions, including sudden and dangerous surges. Authorities are urging caution for maritime activities, including marine leisure and shipping operations, as rough seas and gusty winds may persist.
Residents in the Ogasawara Islands and those planning marine travel are advised to monitor the latest weather updates and exercise heightened caution as conditions develop.
Source: ウェザーニュース
