Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Hurricane Blas holding its strength as a category 3 hurricane, about 1125 mi (1810 km) WSW of the southern tip of Baja California. Gradual weakening is forecast during the next 48 hours. No coastal watches or warnings are in effect.

Tropical depression Four-E forecast to intensify as it moves away from Mexico. Located about 725 mi (1165 km) S of the southern tip of Baja California. The depression is forecast to become a tropical storm on Thursday. No coastal watches or warnings are in effect.

In the Western Pacific - Category 5 Super typhoon Nepartak is located approximately 275 nm southeast of Taipei, Taiwan. Taiwan is on high alert ahead of the arrival of "near-perfect" super typhoon Nepartak, expected to slam into the island early on Friday morning local time.

Newsbytes:

China - Update - Flood relief and rescue efforts have been stepped up in the Chinese city of Wuhan, which has been hit by severe flooding. Transport links and water and power supplies in the city of 10 million are severely affected. Flooding across central and southern China has killed 186 people and 45 are missing. The Chinese premier has called upon local authorities across the country to be prepared for further downpours. 32 million people in 26 provinces across China have been affected by severe flooding. 1.4 million people have been relocated. 56,000 houses have collapsed.

Nepal-China Border - Flooding in Bhotekoshi River has swept away at least 21 houses of Tatopani area in Sindhupalchowk district along Nepal-China border on Tuesday night. It is believed to be the biggest flood in the Bhotekoshi River in 35 years. However, no human casualties have been recorded as of Wednesday evening.

Victoria, Australia - Much of Victoria is under water with heavy rain since Wednesday morning. Rivers and creeks across the Gippsland region have broken their banks, swamping houses and businesses.