The latest estimates rate Usagi as a 125 mph typhoon. Based on meteorological data taken last night from remote island stations in the Philippines, it appears that sustained winds over 100 mph are confined to the small cluster of ferocious squalls surrounding the eye (the purple ring in the image below, called the eyewall). Estimates from JTWC (Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Hawaii) suggest hurricane force winds extend outward 50-60 miles from the center. For reference, that's about half the size of Katrina.
There's no doubt Usagi is quite capable of unleashing tempestuous conditions. Basco airport experienced some of that last evening, reporting a (sustained) wind of 112 mph. The edge of the eye apparently passed over the station, because the wind nearly calmed out and the pressure dropped to 930 mb shortly thereafter. Yikes!
On the bright side, we are seeing signs that Usagi has begun to weaken a little. Though the eyewall remains essentially intact, some deterioration in the radar presentation has been noted during the past 12 hours, with nearly rain-free areas now showing up in the core circulation. http://www.weather.com/newscenter/tropical/
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