Tropical storm Fung-Wong heading towards Taiwan

Tropical storm Fung-Wong has brought heavy rains and gusty winds to parts of northern Philippines and is now headed towards Taiwan. Earlier in the week, the tropical storm has already flooded Manila, where more than 36,000 people have been displaced. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has reported at least five deaths. Parts of the Philippines were already impacted by Typhoon Kalmaegi.

Fung-Wong was formed on September 18, around just east of Philippines and is now moving towards the north-northwest. According to Skymet Meteorology Division in India, it is estimated that many areas of Luzon would witness very strong winds and flooding in low lying areas. Heavy rainfall of 100 mm to 200 mm is the greatest threat, sighting the risk of mudslides. Fung-Wong is moving north and is expected to track to the north-northeast. This track would take Fung-Wong over Taiwan through Sunday and into Monday.

Moving on further, Fung-Wong may strengthen as it will be slowly moving into a favorable atmospheric environment and over warm water temperatures. However, intensification may be limited due to its expected close proximity to land, especially if Fung-Wong moves directly north over the high mountains of Taiwan. If it avoids a direct landfall on Taiwan, it will have a better chance of becoming a typhoon.

Regardless of the exact track, Taiwan will likely experience damaging winds, very heavy rainfall, high surf and the risk of mudslides. Rainfall totals in eastern parts of Taiwan could exceed 300 mm.

After impacting Taiwan, Fung-Wong is expected to turn to the north-northwest towards eastern China. The remnants of Fung-Wong may also bring heavy rain to South Korea and Japan next week, bringing the risk of flood in the areas of Japan, leading to landslides.