Government Flying Service dispatched a Challenger 605 fixed-wing aircraft this morning (September 1) at 9am to collect meteorological data near the Super Typhoon Saola.

     Upon arrival, the aircraft deployed sondes at the designated coordinates (Latitude: 21.8 degrees North, Longitude: 116.3 degrees East) and altitudes provided by the Hong Kong Observatory to collect first-hand meteorological information. The photos taken show that the eyewall of Super Typhoon Saola is well defined, with tightly-wound circulation, indicating that it has developed into a mature storm.
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     The meteorological data collected provide a basis for the Observatory to analyse the intensity and three-dimensional structure of the tropical cyclone, and determine the storm's strength and future track, holding significant importance for the upcoming post-typhoon action plan.

Ends/Friday, September 1, 2023
Issued at HKT 15:15

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