By Rolynda Jonathan
Koror, Palau – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has placed a tropical storm warning for Nukuoro in Pohnpei State and Lukunor in Chuuk State as a result of Tropical Storm Bopha.
“Tropical Storm Bopha is about 288 miles southeast of Chuuk moving west northwest at 7 mph with the maximum wind at 60 mph”, said Kikuko Mochimaru, Staff Meteorologist of the National Weather Service in Koror.
As of 12:00 pm on Wednesday November 28, Bopha is predicted to be moving in the direction of Palau and Yap, and is predicted to make landfall in Palau on December 3rd at 3:00 am.
Mochimaru says, “this may change in the course of the next few days, but this is the prediction as of today.”
Tropical Storm Bopha is expected to intensify within the next 24 hours upgrading to a typhoon with winds at 115 mph and gust at 143 mph.
The Palau National Emergency Committee is advising the community to take necessary measures in preparation for the potential typhoon heading in Palau’s direction.
People are being advised to gather emergency supplies such as drinking water, food and flashlights including other necessary preparations such boarding up windows, trimming nearby trees and securing any loose objects in and around their properties.
The National Weather Service, National Emergency Management Office and the National Emergency Committee are working collaboratively in monitoring the storm as it heads towards Palau.
