Key Facts
• Japan Meteorological Agency issued tropical depression update on August 18 at 10:25 AM.
• Tropical depression located 310 km south-southeast of Miyakojima as of 9:00 AM.
• Coordinates: 22°10’N, 126°25’E; moving north-northeast at a slow pace.
• Current central pressure: 1008 hPa; max wind speed: 15 m/s; gusts: 23 m/s.
• Expected to become a typhoon by 9:00 PM, 240 km south of Naha.
• Predicted central pressure: 1006 hPa; max wind speed: 18 m/s; gusts: 25 m/s.
• 24-hour forecast: 80 km southwest of Naha by August 19, 9:00 AM.
• 48-hour forecast: 270 km west of Amami City by August 20, 9:00 AM.
• 72-hour forecast: 260 km west of Kyushu by August 21, 9:00 AM.
• Forecast accuracy: 70% probability of center entering prediction circle.
Summary
The Japan Meteorological Agency announced that a tropical depression south of Miyakojima is expected to develop into a typhoon within 12 hours. As of August 18, 9:00 AM, the system is moving north-northeast with a central pressure of 1008 hPa and maximum wind speeds of 15 m/s. By 9:00 PM, it is forecasted to be 240 km south of Naha with increased wind speeds. Over the next 72 hours, the typhoon is predicted to approach Okinawa and move west of Kyushu, with a 70% probability of accuracy. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay updated on weather developments.
