Gonu Has Become a Super Cyclonic Storm
RSMC New Delhi at 1700 UTC on 4 June 2007 upgraded Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Gonu to Super Cyclonic Storm Gonu based on 1500 UTC data. This is the highest classification a tropical cyclone in the North Indian Ocean can achieve. RSMC New Delhi estimates central pressure at 920 hPa and maximum sustained 10-minute wind speed at 130 knots (241 km/hr) with gusts to 160 knots (296 km/hr).
The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) at 1200 UTC on 4 June 2007 in Warning 010 indicated central pressure of Tropical Cyclone 02A (Gonu) at 898 millibars (hPa) and estimated maximum sustained 1-minute wind speed at 140 knots (259 km/hr) with gusts to 170 knots (315 km/hr), making it a Saffir-Simpson Category 5 storm (the highest rating on the Saffir-Simpson scale). If Gonu were in the Western North Pacific Ocean, it would be classified by JTWC as a super typhoon.
Super Cyclonic Storm GONU, Infrared Image at 1800 UTC 4 June 2007.
The Arabian Peninsula is to the left in the photo. Photo courtesy Naval Research Lab (NRL)
Super Cyclonic Storm Gonu is presently moving toward the west-northwest at about 10 knots (19 km/hr). It is expected to reach the Oman coast on 6 June.
Check our Tropical Storm, Typhoon & Hurricane Tracking Center frequently for updates on Gonu. If you are within this dangerous storm's expected path, begin emergency preparations immediately and stay tuned to your local civil defence, government or emergency broadcasts for latest critical information and advice.
Technorati Tags: Cyclonic Storm Gonu, Tropical Cyclone 02A, RSMC New Delhi, JTWC, tropical cyclone
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