Typhoon Nida grows to a Cat 5 super typhoon

Typhoon Nida has rapidly intensified and is now a Category 5 super typhoon. Very warm water temperatures and low wind shear have created conditions to allow for rapid intensification, as much as 50 knots over a 12 hour period. Further intensification is expected.

Weather Underground Forecast Discussion

Nida continues to rapidly intensify (50 knot in 12 hours). The sea surface temperatures remain very favorable with indications that a warm pool near 14n 142e will cause further intensification in the next 12 to 24 hours. Upper level analysis shows an expansion in the radial outflow aloft supporting the increase in low level inflow. There is high confidence in the current position and motion based on the eye fixes and radar imagery from Guam.

Nida has begun moving at 13 knots toward the northwest. This compared to nearly stationary motion yesterday at a Category 1 intensity. The typhoon is moving away from the Marianas but is generating very high surf and dangerous rip tide conditions along the islands.

Typhoon Nida moving away (KUAM)

Typhoon Nida is moving northwest away from the Marianas. The storm was located about 180 miles southwest of Guam. As the storm moves away leaving us with strong gusts of wind and some rain, the National Weather Service has also issued a High Surf Warning, which will remain in effect through Thanksgiving.

Guam typhoon generates high surf (Saipan Tribune)

The Emergency Management Office is strongly advising the public to avoid venturing near exposed reefs and beaches until Friday due to large waves brought on by a typhoon passing Guam.

Based on information received from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, swells generated by Typhoon Nida will produce hazardous surf conditions and a high risk of rip currents through Friday evening.A high surf and small craft advisory remains in effect for the Marianas region.

Expect hazardous surf of 9 to 12 feet along east facing exposures and along southeast facing exposures Thursday and Thursday night. Surf heights will peak early on Thursday as Nida makes its closest approach. Surf of 8 to 10 feet is expected along south facing reefs on Friday.

East and north facing reefs will be particularly dangerous due to rip currents that are life threatening.