PAGASA: TROPICAL STORM 'OFEL' ENTERS PAR ON TUESDAY

Tropical storm named Ofel east of Eastern Visayas has entered the Philippine region and is forecast to intensify for the following days (Photo courtesy of PAGASA-DOST)

As Severe Tropical Storm Nika is nearing the boundary of the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and is about to exit, Tropical Storm "Ofel" have entered the region and slightly intensifies as it moves Northwestward over the Philippine Sea according to the state weather bureau.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on its bulletin that the center of the eye of ‘Ofel’ was estimated based on all available data 950 km East of Southeastern Luzon moving Northwestward 35 km/h, with maximum sustained winds of 85 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 105 km/h.

Currently, Tropical Storm ‘Ofel’ is not directly affecting any part of the country. However, on Friday (November 15) Cagayan and Isabela may experience heavy to intense rain based on Pagasa’s weather advisory in anticipation of the heavy rainfall caused by ‘Ofel’.

It may bring numerous flooding events especially in areas that are urbanized, low lying, or near rivers. Also, landslide is likely in moderate to highly susceptible areas according to Pagasa.

Apayao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province may also experience moderate to heavy rains. Potential impact of localized flooding is possible mainly in urbanized, low lying, or near rivers. Landslide is possible in highly susceptible areas.

“OFEL is forecast to move west northwestward until Thursday (November 14) evening before turning northwestward to northward for the rest of the forecast period. On the forecast track, OFEL may make landfall over Northern or Central Luzon on Thursday afternoon or evening.”

Areas in Northern Luzon might be at risk of heavy rainfall, severe wind, and, possibly, storm surge inundation which may cause considerable impacts. Moreover, the eastern portions of Central and Southern Luzon may also be affected, especially if the tropical cyclone further expands in size or follows a more southerly path “but within the forecast confidence cone.”

Pagasa added that Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 may be raised over portions of Cagayan Valley on late evening of November 12 or tomorrow (November 13) early morning. The highest Wind Signal which may be hoisted during the occurrence of ‘Ofel’ is Wind Signal No. 4.

Source: Philippine Star 

Be part of ImHenyo community!

Get featured by sharing your stories, news, and comments

Email us at [email protected]