Photo credit: Dost_pagasa

Brace yourselves—Super Typhoon Leon (Kong-Rey) is steadily moving closer to Batanes, and the latest Tropical Cyclone Bulletin warns of intense winds, heavy rain, and potential storm surges. Here’s what you need to know as of the 8:00 PM update.

Where Is Leon Now?

At 7:00 PM today, the eye of Super Typhoon Leon was just 190 kilometers east of Basco, Batanes. Packing maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts reaching up to 230 km/h, Leon is moving northwest at 20 km/h, poised to bring significant impacts, especially for Batanes.

What Areas Are on Alert?

PAGASA has issued various Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) for Northern Luzon:
- Signal No. 4: Batanes, brace for typhoon-force winds (118-184 km/h) within 12 hours—expect severe impacts.
- Signal No. 3: Parts of Babuyan Islands and the northeastern area of Cagayan, where strong winds (89-117 km/h) could bring significant threats.
- Signal No. 2: Gale-force winds for the rest of Babuyan, parts of mainland Cagayan, Isabela, Apayao, and areas in Kalinga, Abra, and Mountain Province.
- Signal No. 1: The rest of Cagayan, parts of Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, and more. These areas may experience strong winds with minimal to minor damage risks.

Storm Surge Warning and Hazardous Seas

Storm surge is a major threat, with water levels possibly exceeding 3 meters in low-lying areas of Batanes and Babuyan Islands. Coastal flooding is likely, so if you’re in these areas, heed local advisories closely.

Seas around Northern Luzon are extremely rough, with waves potentially reaching heights up to 14 meters around Batanes and up to 12 meters around Babuyan Islands. Mariners should avoid going to sea until conditions improve, and all vessels are advised to seek shelter immediately.

Heavy Rain and Flood Risks

Severe rain is expected across Northern Luzon, so stay tuned for weather advisories regarding flash floods and landslides. Residents in vulnerable areas should be ready to evacuate if advised.

What’s Next for Leon?

Leon is forecast to move northwest, approaching the eastern coast of Taiwan by tomorrow afternoon. Batanes will feel Leon’s closest pass tonight into early tomorrow, possibly at its peak strength. After Taiwan, Leon will likely head toward the East China Sea, weakening as it approaches.

Take Action, Stay Safe

Residents in Northern Luzon, particularly in Batanes, should make all necessary preparations to protect life and property. Follow official updates, especially from local authorities, and stay indoors where possible.

Let’s all stay safe and be prepared for Leon’s approach.