HCMC — Storm Kalmaegi is gaining strength as it moves toward the central East Sea and is forecast to enter the region on November 5, according to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.
At 1 a.m. on November 3, the storm’s eye was located east of the central Philippines, sustaining winds at level 11, with gusts at level 14.
Kalmaegi is expected to intensify further as it continues west. By early November 4, the storm is forecast to reach the east of the central Philippines with sustained winds at level 12 and gusts at level 15, moving at around 20 km per hour.
Conditions in the East Sea are expected to deteriorate from the afternoon of November 4. Winds in the eastern part of the central East Sea may increase to levels 6-7 and later rise to levels 8-9. Areas near the storm’s eye may see winds of levels 10-12, gusts of levels 14-15, and waves of 5-7 meters.
The storm is projected to cross central Philippines and approach the area west of the country by early November 5. It is expected to shift west-northwest at 20-25 km per hour, affecting waters east of the central East Sea. The disaster risk level is 3.
By early November 6, Kalmaegi is forecast to enter the central East Sea, including the Truong Sa (Spratly) Islands, with sustained winds at level 13 and gusts at level 17. The storm may continue to strengthen. The disaster risk level remains at 3.
From November 5 to 6, the central East Sea, including Truong Sa, and offshore areas from Danang to Khanh Hoa may face winds at levels 12-14, gusts above level 17, and waves of 8-10 meters.
The forecasting center warned that vessels and offshore structures in affected areas may face severe risks from strong winds, thunderstorms and high waves.
