Choi-wan rose in status to the ranks of the super typhoon early on Tuesdaymorning as its winds reached those of a Category 4 hurricane. At the time, themighty storm was cutting right across the small, relatively remote island ofGaguan in the Northern Marianas.Later in the day, winds rose still further and, at 155 mph, they were right atthe threshold for Category 5 status. At the time, west-northwest movement ofChoi-wan was away from the Northern Marianas and over the easternmostPhilippines Sea.
For at least the next three days, strength of Choi-wan is likely to remainextreme, enough for super typhoon status. Or, put another way, enough to holdCategory 4 to Category 5 hurricane status.
Following a stint over open water, Choi-wan will track near the small Bonin andVolcano Islands, which lie far to the south of mainland Japan.
Latest information shows that Choi-wan will steer well clear of eastern Japan,as a path veering away to the northeast and the open North Pacific Ocean isforecast.
Story by AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Jim Andrews.
