After ravaging Micronesia a few days ago, Maysak has intensified into a super typhoon and is expected to threaten the Philippines this weekend. Earlier this week Super Typhoon Maysak intensified into the equivalent of a Category 5 hurricane with sustained winds of 160 mph (257 km/h). According to Weather.com, Maysak has killed at least 5 people and demolished up to 95% of the tin houses on the Micronesian islands of Chuuk State.

A cyclone becomes a super typhoon when maximum sustained winds reach 150 mph. The last such pre-April super typhoon was Mitag in March 2002. Reports indicate Maysak will be weaker by the time it reaches the Philippines but people in the storm’s path are still being cautioned.

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station have been observing the super typhoon from space, capturing photos of the intimidating storm including the giant 15 nautical-mile wide eye. For more information visit NASA and The Weather Channel.