On October 23, the Hainan Provincial Meteorological Administration issued a forecast regarding Typhoon Tanmei. The typhoon is expected to enter the eastern South China Sea around the evening of October 24, with its intensity gradually increasing to potentially reach super typhoon levels. By October 26, it is projected to pass through the Xisha Islands and approach the southeastern coast of Hainan Island.
As of 8 a.m. on October 23, Typhoon Tanmei, classified as a tropical storm, was located at a latitude of 15.7 degrees north and a longitude of 124.4 degrees east, approximately 385 kilometers northeast of Manila, Philippines. The maximum wind speed close to the center was measured at 23 meters per second, equivalent to a force of level 9.
Forecasts indicate that Tanmei will continue to move northwest, turning slightly westward at a speed of about 20 kilometers per hour. It is expected to cross northern Luzon during the night of October 23 into the daytime of October 24, reaching the eastern waters of the South China Sea around the evening of October 24. As the storm strengthens, significant impacts are anticipated, particularly as it nears Hainan’s southeastern coastline on October 26.
The effects of the typhoon will bring increasing winds to the central and northern South China Sea starting on October 24. Wind speeds are expected to escalate from east to west, reaching levels 10 to 12, with rotational winds near Tanmei’s center potentially hitting levels 13 to 14. Between October 26 and 28, Hainan Island is forecasted to face severe wind and rain conditions.
Hainan’s meteorological authorities are urging relevant departments to closely monitor updates and prepare for necessary defensive measures. They also advise vessels operating in the central and northern South China Sea to seek shelter and return to port in a timely manner. Additionally, there may be disruptions in navigation through the Qiongzhou Strait from October 26 to 28, prompting related authorities to prepare for adjustments in transport arrangements and traffic control.
