Severe Tropical Storm “Pepito” continues to gain strength as it moves westward, nearing typhoon status.
Weather specialist Daniel James Villamil said “Pepito” was located approximately 795 km east of Guiuan, Eastern Samar, with sustained winds of 110 km/h and gusts up to 135 km/h at 4 a.m.
The storm’s movement is expected to impact parts of Luzon and the Visayas over the weekend, with potential landfall projected along the eastern coast of Central or Southern Luzon. PAGASA warns that “Pepito” could escalate to super typhoon strength by tomorrow evening before making landfall.
Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone “Ofel” is creating hazardous conditions over the northern and eastern seaboards of Northern Luzon.
Gale warnings have been raised for these areas due to rough seas, which could see wave heights reaching up to 5 meters. Mariners are advised to avoid sea travel, particularly those in smaller vessels, due to the heightened risks associated with the gale-force winds brought by “Ofel.”
PAGASA has issued Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 for parts of Luzon and Visayas, including Catanduanes, portions of Camarines Norte and Sur, Albay, and Sorsogon in Luzon, as well as Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, and Samar in the Visayas.
Areas under the warning signal should prepare for strong winds between 39 and 61 km/h, which could pose minimal to minor impacts on life and property, particularly in exposed and coastal areas.
Although “Pepito” has not yet made landfall, the storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, especially over Eastern Visayas and areas in Luzon. This could lead to localized flooding and landslides in areas with high vulnerability. Additionally, a storm surge warning has been issued, with water levels anticipated to rise between 2 and 3 meters above normal tide in low-lying coastal regions, including Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, and parts of Samar.
As “Pepito” moves westward, it is forecast to shift to a west-northwest direction over the Philippine Sea. A landfall along the eastern coast of Central or Southern Luzon remains probable by the weekend, with the storm likely to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by late Monday. Residents in areas at risk are advised to stay vigilant, follow local authority guidance, and prepare for evacuation if necessary.
