Typhoon Phanfone (Ursula) makes unwelcome Holiday landfall in the Philippines
The decade is not done yet in the tropics as the Western Pacific has produced another typhoon, this time in the form of Phanfone (also named Ursula per PAGASA). Phanfone, now a Category 2 typhoon (Category 3 per Force Thirteen’s estimates), had made it’s initial landfall in the Central Philippines yesterday and is now moving out of the area. However, it was not a very welcome visit as it’s slow move speed has caused severe flooding and consequently damages.
Current Storm Information
As of the latest Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) advisory, Typhoon Phanfone (Ursula) is a Category 2 typhoon of 110 mph (95 knots, 175 km/h) with gusts of 130 mph (115 knots, 210 km/h). It’s current location is 11.8N, 122.4E, moving WNW at a speed of near 11 mph (10 knots, 20 km/h).
It is currently predicted to maintain a westward direction with an increasing Northward tilt. Additional slight strengthening is possible as it does so before it heads into unfavorable conditions in the next 2 days. From there, rapid weakening leading to an eventual dissipation is forecast to take place. Interests in Hainan should monitor Phanfone for any possible effects that may occur near the end of/outside the current forecasts. The west coast of the central most Philippine islands should continue to receive elevated winds and rainfall of varying intensity throughout today and into tomorrow as the typhoon moves further away.
Other Tropical Events
- 99P/03F is developing nicely, and a recent Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert (TCFA) has been issued for the system as a result.
- 96S continues to persist in the South-West Indian Ocean with a low chance of development at this moment though that could change.
For further information, refer to your local meteorological office. Force Thirteen is also providing more updates on Phanfone and other storms around the world on their youtube channel, facebook and twitter accounts.
Also have a Merry Christmas, and stay safe out there!
