Latest Update on Super Typhoon Pepito from PAGASA
PAGASA UPDATE – Super Typhoon Pepito (MAN-YI) continues to intensify and is currently posing a significant threat to the Bicol Region.
As of 10:00 AM on November 16, 2024, its eye was located 185 km east of Catarman, Northern Samar, with maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts reaching 230 km/h. The storm is moving west-northwestward at 25 km/h, and its powerful winds extend outward up to 440 km from the center.
PAGASA has issued multiple Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) due to the storm’s intensity. Signal No. 4, indicating typhoon-force winds, has been raised over parts of Catanduanes and northeastern Camarines Sur, with potential impacts ranging from significant to severe threats to life and property. Areas under TCWS No. 3, which may experience storm-force winds, include parts of Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, and several provinces in the Visayas. TCWS No. 2 and No. 1 are also in effect for other regions, with gale-force and strong winds expected to cause moderate to minor damage.
The storm’s path suggests that it will likely make landfall near Catanduanes tonight or early tomorrow, with a possible shift to the eastern coasts of Camarines Sur or Albay. Regardless of the exact landfall point, the Bicol Region, Quezon, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, and parts of Northern Luzon are expected to experience heavy rainfall, severe winds, and storm surges. The typhoon will likely weaken as it passes over land but will remain a typhoon until reaching the West Philippine Sea by Monday.
Residents in affected areas are urged to take precautions, including following evacuation orders and staying alert for further updates. Coastal regions are at risk of life-threatening storm surges, with heights potentially exceeding 3 meters in various areas. Sea travel is hazardous, especially along the eastern and southern seaboards of Southern Luzon and the Visayas. The next update from PAGASA will be at 2:00 PM today.
