NAHA - Large and very strong Typhoon No. 13 (Dolphin) was moving west-northwest near Minamitorishima as of 9 a.m. on August 3 and is forecast to approach Okinawa from around August 6, prompting authorities to urge residents to complete preparations early.
The typhoon was traveling at 20 kilometers per hour with a central atmospheric pressure of 945 hectopascals, maximum sustained winds of 45 meters per second and maximum gusts of 60 meters per second.
Satellite images showed a clearly defined eye surrounded by well-developed clouds, indicating that Dolphin remained a powerful storm despite a slight rise in central pressure.
The typhoon is moving over waters with sea surface temperatures above 31 degrees Celsius, around 1 to 3 degrees higher than average. With no recent typhoon having passed through the area, the warm water is expected to allow the storm to retain much of its strength near Japan.
Dolphin is forecast to pass near Iwo Jima and over waters south of the Ogasawara Islands around August 4. Although the center is expected to remain south of Chichijima and Hahajima, the islands will lie on the right-hand side of the storm's path, known as the dangerous semicircle, where winds are generally stronger.
The Ogasawara Islands could experience violent winds, heavy rain and rough seas as the storm passes. High waves accompanied by swells have already begun affecting the region, and waves of between 8 and 10 meters are possible near the time of the typhoon's closest approach.
The storm is then expected to continue west as a strong typhoon and approach Okinawa's Daito Islands around August 6. The islands are forecast to enter the storm's violent-wind zone, while Okinawa's main island could also face a close approach later.
Very rough seas are expected around the Daito Islands from August 6 through August 7 and near Okinawa's main island around August 7.
The Okinawa Regional Headquarters of the Japan Meteorological Agency warned that the storm's track could also bring rainfall heavy enough to warrant warnings and produce a storm surge. Residents are being advised to secure outdoor objects, check emergency supplies and complete other preparations before conditions deteriorate.
The typhoon's swells are expected to spread across a broad section of Japan's Pacific coast. Areas with waves exceeding 3 meters could expand even where the storm brings little direct rain or wind.
People planning swimming, boating or other marine recreation are being urged to stay out of dangerous waters and follow instructions issued by local authorities and beach operators. Sea conditions may become hazardous even when the weather on land appears relatively calm.
A tropical depression near the Philippines, meanwhile, is now considered less likely to develop into a typhoon.
Source: ウェザーニュース
