Tropical Storm Chedeng Intensifies As It Moves Northwest Over Philippine Sea
Photo credit: Dost_pagasa
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has released Tropical Cyclone Bulletin No. 9, providing updates on Severe Tropical Storm Chedeng (GUCHOL).
According to the bulletin, Severe Tropical Storm Chedeng has slightly intensified as it moves west northwestward over the Philippine Sea. As of 10:00 AM, the center of Chedeng was estimated to be approximately 1,070 kilometers east of Central Luzon, specifically located at 15.9°N and 131.6°E. It has maximum sustained winds of 100 km/h near the center, with gustiness of up to 125 km/h, and a central pressure of 985 hPa. Chedeng is currently moving at a speed of 15 km/h in a west northwestward direction.
The bulletin indicates that there are no Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) hoisted at this time. However, the bulletin highlights the possibility of the enhancement of the Southwest Monsoon due to the forecast scenario of Chedeng. The timing and intensity of monsoon rains, especially in the western portion of the country, may change depending on Chedeng's movement and interaction with other weather systems. The public is advised to stay updated on the possible enhancement of the Southwest Monsoon through PAGASA's Weather Advisory, particularly within the next three days.
Regarding hazards affecting land areas, the bulletin states that Chedeng is unlikely to directly bring heavy rainfall over any part of the country in the next 3 to 5 days. However, the Southwest Monsoon enhancement may result in gusty conditions in certain areas, especially coastal and upland/mountainous localities. The following areas are expected to experience gusty conditions on the specified days: Visayas, Romblon, Occidental Mindoro, northern portion of Palawan including Kalayaan, Calamian, and Cuyo Islands, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands, and Camiguin tomorrow; Visayas, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol Region, Camiguin, and Dinagat Islands on Saturday.
In terms of hazards affecting coastal waters, Chedeng is unlikely to cause rough sea conditions over the coastal waters of the country within the next 24 hours.
The bulletin provides the track and intensity outlook for Chedeng. It is forecasted to remain far from the Philippine landmass, moving generally west northwestward to northwestward today through tomorrow. On Friday evening, it is expected to turn more northward. Chedeng is anticipated to become slow-moving until Saturday before accelerating on Sunday, generally moving north northeastward or northeastward. The tropical cyclone is forecasted to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Monday morning. Due to favorable environmental conditions, Chedeng is expected to intensify in the next 2 to 3 days and may be upgraded to a typhoon by tonight or tomorrow. The peak intensity may be reached by Saturday.
Given these developments, the public and disaster risk reduction and management offices are advised to take all necessary measures to protect life and property. Individuals residing in areas identified as highly or very highly susceptible to hazards should follow evacuation and other instructions from local officials. For specific information related to heavy rainfall warnings, thunderstorm/rainfall advisories, and severe weather updates in your area, please monitor the products issued by your local PAGASA Regional Services Division.