190 mph Super Typhoon Haiyan heads for Philippines

Fred CampagnaNovember 7, 2013

Infrared satellite imagery of Super Typhoon Haiyan on November 7, 2013

Super Typhoon Haiyan is the strongest tropical cyclone of 2013 with sustained winds near 190 mph, and gusts to 230 mph! The storm is equal to a category five hurricane, and it is heading for landfall in the central Philippines Friday morning. The center of the storm is expected to pass close to an area where thousands have been displaced to as a result of a 7.1 magnitude earthquake in mid-October.

As of 1pm EST on Thursday, November 7 the intensity of Haiyan was increased to 195 mph sustained winds. There are limited observation stations near the storm, and it is impossible to know exactly how strong the storm is. Based on satellite estimates, Haiyan is among the strongest recorded storms in world history.

Meso-vortices visible within the eye of Super Typhoon Haiyan

A 10 foot storm surge will inundate coastal areas, and the storm may still have 150 mph sustained winds near the center when it makes landfall. Flash flooding and mudslides are also a major concern with more than 8 inches of rain forecasted in near the center of the storm. The capital city of Manila will be spared the brunt of the storm, with 50-75 mph winds and 4-8 inches of rain expected there.