Photo credit: DOST_PAGASA

Tropical Storm Helen (internationally named Pulasan) continues its journey over the northern part of the Philippine Sea.

As of 10:00 AM today, Helen was located 1,060 km east-northeast of Extreme Northern Luzon, packing maximum sustained winds of 85 km/h and gusts reaching 105 km/h. It is moving northwest at 25 km/h and is forecast to stay clear of the country. However, it is contributing to some significant weather changes.

No Direct Hit but Expect Monsoon Rains

No Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) have been raised, and Helen is expected to remain far from Philippine landmass, possibly exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) later this afternoon or evening. But before you relax completely, know that the monsoon, supercharged by Helen and another system, Tropical Storm Gener, will still bring gusty conditions and rainfall over several regions.

Areas Affected by Winds and Rains

Today, strong to gale-force winds could hit areas including Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Metro Manila, parts of CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, and the Visayas, among others. Expect similar conditions tomorrow, Sept. 19, in Ilocos Region, Isabela, Aurora, and Zamboanga Peninsula. The same weather pattern is likely to persist on Thursday.

Coastal Warnings: Rough Seas Ahead

If you’re planning to head out to sea, think twice. A Gale Warning has been issued for the western seaboard of Central and Southern Luzon, as well as Visayas. Rough seas (up to 4 meters high) make conditions hazardous for small vessels and motorbancas. It’s best to stay on land if you’re not equipped to deal with such conditions.

Track and Intensity Outlook

Helen is expected to maintain its strength as a tropical storm and may even weaken as it heads into the East China Sea. It’s moving northwestward, keeping its distance from the Philippines, which means we won’t be seeing any direct impact, but the enhanced monsoon will continue to affect several parts of the country.