Typhoon Linfa (03W) has strengthened rapidly in the last 24 hours. It willtrack through the Taiwan straight between China and Taiwan on Sunday. Heavyrains and strong winds will affect the coasts of both countries.Linfa will hold its current intensity of 85 mph or so as it passes throughthe Taiwan straight. Very heavy rain will pound China near the cities ofZhangzhou and Fuzhou. Heavy rain will also affect most of Taiwan. Rainfallamounts in these areas will average 5-10 inches, but up to 20 inches could fallover the mountains.
The strongest winds will likely remain over water. However, gusts tohurricane force will affect eastern Taiwan and the Chinese coast.
Linfa will move away from Taiwan and China on Sunday night but it isexpected to brush southern Japan as it weakens to a tropical storm on Monday.
Story by AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Dave Samuhel
