A category IV hurricane equivalent storm is heading for Taiwan. Typhoon Gaemi is centred around 23.5°N and 123.3°E, in the open waters of the West Pacific Ocean. The powerful typhoon is heading northwestward to make a direct hit over the northern parts of mainland Taiwan. The first typhoon to hit Taiwan this season is packed with winds in excess of 200 kmh. It may gain strength further to become a super typhoon with winds in excess of 225kmh. The typhoon is likely to make landfall within the next 12 hours.
A powerful and rapidly intensifying typhoon is bearing down on Taiwan, shortly. The storm is sailing in a favourable environment for further strengthening. Sea surface temperature in excess of 30°C is supporting high ocean heat content. Vertical wind shear is moderate and conducive for intensification. The typhoon has developed an ‘eye’ which at the moment is cloud-filled. It may become clear with sharp outlines, as the typhoon strengthens further.
Ahead of landfall, precautionary measures have been initiated by the state administration. Capital city Taipei, Hsinchu and southern city Kaohsiung have ordered the closure of schools. Rail, road and air traffic will be suspended temporarily. The typhoon will take about 6-8 hours to move across northern parts of Taiwan and enter the Taiwan Strait by early tomorrow. The typhoon will weaken to a Category -1 equivalent hurricane before striking the coastline of China. The weakening of storms is attributable to a drop in sea surface temperature, entrainment and terrain friction. The typhoon will strike the Chinese mainland, late on Thursday night.