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Advocates Philippines
Typhoon Ofel Strengthens; Approaches Cagayan And Isabela
Photo credit: Dost_pagasa
Typhoon Ofel, known internationally as Usagi, has intensified as it makes its way toward the Philippine coastline, now packing winds of 130 km/h and gusts reaching up to 160 km/h. Here's what we know so far about this storm and what you should keep in mind.
Where is Typhoon Ofel Right Now?
As of 7:00 PM, the eye of Typhoon Ofel was spotted about 425 km east of Baler, Aurora, moving west-northwest at 20 km/h. This path means it’s projected to make landfall along the eastern coast of Cagayan or Isabela by tomorrow afternoon. Residents in these areas should be prepared for heavy rain, strong winds, and potential disruptions to power and communication lines.
Who’s Under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals?
Several areas in Luzon are currently under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS):
Signal No. 2: Gale-force winds (up to 88 km/h) are expected in parts of Cagayan, Isabela, Apayao, and northern Ilocos Norte. These areas could experience moderate impacts, including possible power outages and light property damage.
Signal No. 1: Residents in Batanes, Quirino, and parts of Aurora, Nueva Vizcaya, Kalinga, Abra, and Mountain Province will experience strong winds up to 61 km/h, posing a minimal to minor threat.
Other Major Hazards to Watch Out For
Heavy Rainfall: Rain is expected to pour down heavily in affected areas. Stay updated with PAGASA’s rainfall warnings for the latest on expected amounts and areas at risk of flooding.
Storm Surge Risk: Low-lying coastal areas, particularly in Batanes, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Cagayan, and northern Aurora, could see storm surges reaching up to 3 meters. The risk of coastal flooding is high, so stay alert if you live near the shoreline.
Rough Seas: Sea travel is extremely risky. Waves up to 10 meters have been reported in some areas along the eastern seaboards of Cagayan and the Babuyan Islands. PAGASA warns all vessels to seek shelter until the weather conditions improve.
What’s Next for Typhoon Ofel?
Ofel is expected to continue strengthening in the next 24 hours and could reach its peak intensity just before landfall. However, once it hits land, Ofel should start to weaken as it tracks towards the Luzon Strait and possibly heads out toward the northeastern seas near Taiwan by Saturday.
With heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of storm surges looming, all residents in affected areas should take precautions. Local authorities may issue evacuation orders, so be prepared and stay informed.
Where is Typhoon Ofel Right Now?
As of 7:00 PM, the eye of Typhoon Ofel was spotted about 425 km east of Baler, Aurora, moving west-northwest at 20 km/h. This path means it’s projected to make landfall along the eastern coast of Cagayan or Isabela by tomorrow afternoon. Residents in these areas should be prepared for heavy rain, strong winds, and potential disruptions to power and communication lines.
Who’s Under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals?
Several areas in Luzon are currently under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS):
Signal No. 2: Gale-force winds (up to 88 km/h) are expected in parts of Cagayan, Isabela, Apayao, and northern Ilocos Norte. These areas could experience moderate impacts, including possible power outages and light property damage.
Signal No. 1: Residents in Batanes, Quirino, and parts of Aurora, Nueva Vizcaya, Kalinga, Abra, and Mountain Province will experience strong winds up to 61 km/h, posing a minimal to minor threat.
Other Major Hazards to Watch Out For
Heavy Rainfall: Rain is expected to pour down heavily in affected areas. Stay updated with PAGASA’s rainfall warnings for the latest on expected amounts and areas at risk of flooding.
Storm Surge Risk: Low-lying coastal areas, particularly in Batanes, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Cagayan, and northern Aurora, could see storm surges reaching up to 3 meters. The risk of coastal flooding is high, so stay alert if you live near the shoreline.
Rough Seas: Sea travel is extremely risky. Waves up to 10 meters have been reported in some areas along the eastern seaboards of Cagayan and the Babuyan Islands. PAGASA warns all vessels to seek shelter until the weather conditions improve.
What’s Next for Typhoon Ofel?
Ofel is expected to continue strengthening in the next 24 hours and could reach its peak intensity just before landfall. However, once it hits land, Ofel should start to weaken as it tracks towards the Luzon Strait and possibly heads out toward the northeastern seas near Taiwan by Saturday.
With heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of storm surges looming, all residents in affected areas should take precautions. Local authorities may issue evacuation orders, so be prepared and stay informed.
Nov 13, 2024
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