Super Typhoon Vongfong 2014: Cyclone Becomes Most Powerful Storm On Earth

Super Typhoon Vongfong, currently the most menacing storm on Earth, is being called the most powerful storm of the year. Vongfong, which has already passed over Guam, is now heading toward Japan. The super typhoon has sustained winds of 155 mph with gusts reaching 190 mph, NBC News reported.

The huge cyclone comes days after deadly Typhoon Phanfone touched down on Japan, and will take a path similar to Phanfone's. Vongfong might strengthen in the next 24 hours, but it will probably weaken eventually as it travels north, ABC News reported. Torrential rain, strong winds and mudslides are possible as the super typhoon gets closer to Japan.

Satelite images of Vongfong have been startling. It is the fifth super typhoon (150 mph max sustained winds of higher) to threaten the Pacific this year, The Weather Channel reported. Vongfong has an estimated central pressure of 908 millibars.

"It's safe to say Vongfong is the strongest storm on earth since Haiyan last year," Michael Lowry, storm specialist for TWC, said. Haiyan killed more than 6,000 people when it smashed into the Philippines in November 2013.

It is too soon to tell what type of impact Vongfong might have on Japan since it might not make landfall while it remains at such high intensity, the Washington Post said. It's currently at a category 4 tropical cyclone, but it could grow into a powerful Category 5 storm by Wednesday as it looms over warm water, NBC News reported. The monster storm went from speeds of 89 mph to speeds of 168 mph from Monday to Tuesday morning, the Post added.

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