Study of the Dynamics and Upstream Track Deflection Associated with Typhoon Nepartak (2016) Passing over Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range

Super Typhoon Nepartak was the third most intense Tropical Cyclone worldwide in 2016. It was one of the most severe and deadly storms that made landfall in Taiwan in the last decade. Typhoon Nepartak started out as an area of weak low-pressure system south of the Mariana Islands in the Northwestern Pacific on June 30^th. It quickly intensified into a super typhoon and made landfall in Taiwan on July 8th. While going over Taiwan, Nepartak weekend in strength greatly as its reminiscent headed toward the Chinese mainland. This study delves into the dynamics of typhoon Nepartak as it approached the eastern coast of Taiwan and deflected southwestward while Nepartak’s outer band interacted with Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range. In particular, we would like to differentiate the effects of orographic and synoptic forcing on altering Nepartak’s track. To accomplish this, the study employs the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to simulate Typhoon Nepartak, including the orographic influence of the track. The simulated track and synoptic characteristics will be compared with the observed track provided by Digital Typhoon, Radar data, and reanalysis data. By investigating typhoon behavior in mountainous areas, this study aims to provide valuable insights into typhoon dynamics.