Special Weather Statement: Pohnpei Coastal Waters; Kosrae Coastal Waters

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Special Weather Statement — Pohnpei Coastal Waters; Kosrae Coastal Waters Severity: Moderate. Certainty: Observed. An unsettled monsoon pattern, associated with Invest 92W continues to intensify across Pohnpei and Kosrae. Invest 92W is currently rated sub-low by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, which means development into a significant tropical cyclone is not expected at this time. However, the latest ASCAT pass does show a low-level circulation center with near gale winds to the south of Chuuk. This indicates at least a bit of organization that could bump 92W up to low later tonight or Sunday. Flash flooding and mudslides were reported by Kosrae government officials yesterday. Latest satellite imagery and surface observations show decreased convection across both locations. This is expected to change overnight and a potential for periods of locally heavy rainfall and isolated thunderstorms will continue through Tuesday for Kosrae, and Wednesday for Pohnpei. Strong gusts of 25 to 30 knots are possible near heavier showers as 92W continues to influence the region. Larger localized wind waves will make seas choppy at times. Total rainfall amounts of 5 to 9 inches are possible through the middle of next week. These rainfall amounts could result in flooding and potential mudslides. Residents of Kosrae and Pohnpei should monitor local forecasts and heed advice of emergency managers when heavy rainfall occurs.