 The effects of Typhoon Bopha in the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau were significant , though limited in extent in comparison to the cyclone 's intensity . Typhoon Bopha originated from a tropical depression south of Pohnpei on November 25 , 2012 , and tracked generally westward for more than a week . During this time , it threatened several islands across Micronesia , prompting the issuance of typhoon watches and warnings . The system skirted the Nomoi Islands on November 28 where it caused limited damage . Thereafter , it became a threat to Palau as an intense typhoon . Residents there boarded up their homes and some evacuated to public shelters while officials enacted a strict curfew during the typhoon 's passage . Bopha passed 55 km ( 35 mi ) south of Angaur island , or 100 km ( 65 mi ) south of Babeldaob , on December 2 with winds of 185 km / h ( 115 mph ) . 
