A tropical disturbance east of the Philippines is strengthening and may develop into the first typhoon to make landfall in China this year, according to the China Meteorological Administration. Designated 96W, the system sits on the edge of a subtropical high-pressure ridge in the western Pacific. The conditions, including warm sea surface temperatures, ample moisture, and low vertical wind shear, favor intensification.
Satellite imagery late on June 29 showed that the disturbance was still consolidating. Forecasters said its westward track would take it across the Philippine archipelago, where terrain friction could weaken the system. It remains uncertain whether it will strengthen into a named storm.
Two scenarios are being watched. If the disturbance intensifies, it could reach the southern coast of China by the weekend, becoming the first typhoon of the season to make landfall. This would bring heavy rain and strong winds to Guangdong and nearby provinces. Alternatively, its moisture could feed into a rain band farther north, intensifying rainfall along the Yangtze River.
Eight typhoons have formed in the western Pacific so far this year, but none has made landfall in China. The China Meteorological Administration has said one or two tropical cyclones or tropical depressions may form over the South China Sea and western Pacific in the next ten days, with at least one likely to affect the southern coast. Guangdong authorities have advised residents to follow forecast updates.
Author | Feng Huiting
Photo | Nanfang Daily
