Overview:
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued a continued land warning for parts of southern Taiwan, even as the Western Pacific storm “Usagi” weakens from a typhoon to a tropical storm. Despite the downgrade in intensity, the storm still poses significant risks for heavy rain and strong winds in the affected areas.
Current Situation of Tropical Storm Usagi
As of 10 a.m. Friday, the CWA reported that Tropical Storm Usagi was located approximately 170 kilometers south-southwest of Cape Eluanbi, the southernmost point of Taiwan. The storm, which had downgraded from a typhoon earlier in the day, is moving at a speed of 8 km/h toward the north. The system is expected to turn northeast later in the day, with the possibility of reaching southern Taiwan’s coast by Saturday.
With an average radius of 120 kilometers, Usagi is currently producing sustained winds of 108 km/h, with gusts reaching as high as 137 km/h. Though the storm is weakening, the CWA has advised residents in southern Taiwan to remain alert, as the storm could still bring dangerous weather conditions.
Storm Path and Wind Radius
The CWA’s latest update outlines the storm’s projected path. Usagi is likely to pass over the waters southwest of Taiwan early on Saturday morning before either drifting across the island toward the northeast or shifting further southwest. According to CWA forecaster Wu Wan-hua, there is also the possibility that Usagi could linger over Taiwan as a weak tropical system, making the situation even more unpredictable.
Despite its weakening intensity, the storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the region, particularly in areas south of Hualien County and Kaohsiung. Heavy rains are expected to continue from Friday afternoon to early Saturday morning, with extremely heavy rainfall likely in the mountainous areas of Taitung County, the Hengchun Peninsula, and Pingtung County.
Areas Under Storm Warning
In its ongoing storm warning, the CWA has specifically highlighted the following regions:
| Region | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| Kaohsiung | Strong winds, heavy rainfall |
| Pingtung County | Potential flooding, mountainous rainfall |
| Taitung County | Extreme rainfall in mountainous areas |
| Hengchun Peninsula | Wind gusts, heavy rain |
| Hualien County | Localized showers, heavy rain in southern areas |
Residents in these areas are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to protect life and property.
Ship Warnings and Coastal Impact
The CWA also issued warnings for ships operating in the waters south of Taiwan, including the Taiwan Strait, Bashi Channel, and the Pratas Islands. These regions are likely to experience rough seas and gusty winds due to the storm’s proximity. Mariners are urged to exercise caution and heed all advisories.
Future Outlook for Usagi
While the storm’s intensity continues to decrease, Usagi is still expected to bring significant rainfall, especially to the southern regions of Taiwan. The CWA will continue to monitor the storm’s path, with the possibility that the land warning could be lifted on Saturday if the storm dissipates as expected.
However, if the storm persists, it could potentially linger over Taiwan and cause additional weather disruptions into Sunday. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and prepared for further developments.
Additional Weather Development: Typhoon Man-yi
In another update from the CWA, Tropical Storm Man-yi strengthened into a typhoon early Friday morning. The storm is currently projected to track through the Philippines’ southern Luzon Island and continue toward Hainan Island in China. Based on its current course, Typhoon Man-yi is unlikely to have a significant impact on Taiwan.
Key Takeaways:
- Usagi has weakened from a typhoon to a tropical storm, but the CWA’s land warning remains in effect for parts of southern Taiwan.
- Heavy rainfall is expected in southern Taiwan, particularly in mountainous areas.
- Winds from Usagi could still reach up to 137 km/h, with gusts likely to affect coastal areas.
- Ships operating in the southern Taiwan Strait should take precautions.
- Typhoon Man-yi, a separate storm, is currently not expected to impact Taiwan.
FAQ’s
1. When will the land warning be lifted for southern Taiwan?
The CWA will likely lift the land warning on Saturday if the storm continues to weaken. However, it could persist as a tropical system over Taiwan through Sunday.
2. How should residents in southern Taiwan prepare for Usagi’s effects?
Residents should stay informed through local weather updates, secure loose objects outdoors, and be prepared for potential flooding in low-lying areas, especially in Taitung, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung.
3. Are there any flight cancellations due to the storm?
While specific flight cancellations are not yet reported, passengers are advised to check with airlines for any updates on delayed or canceled flights, particularly to and from southern Taiwan.
4. How strong are the winds expected to be?
Winds from Usagi could reach sustained speeds of 108 km/h, with gusts up to 137 km/h, which could cause damage to weaker structures and trees in affected areas.
5. Will the storm cause a landslide in mountainous areas?
Heavy rainfall is expected in mountainous areas, increasing the risk of landslides, particularly in Taitung, Pingtung, and the Hengchun Peninsula.
