http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/.../18365448.html



Mitag expected to strengthen

22 Nov 2007

A storm heading towards the Philippines could become a super typhoon before it makes landfall, local meteorologists have predicted.

Associated Press reported on November 22nd that Tropical Storm Mitag had gained typhoon status, with a sustained wind speed of 75 miles per hour and gusts of up to 94 miles per hour recorded as it travels west across the Philippine Sea.

It is expected to make landfall in the Bicol region on November 24th, by which time its winds could have reached 138 miles per hour, the Philippine government's chief forecaster Nathaniel Cruz warned.

An evacuation operation to remove residents from the path of Mitag has already started, amid fears it could generate waves of between three and nine metres which could cause widespread damage to coastal areas.



Nine metres ? It's a three store high building.