TWO WEATHER DISTURBANCES TO ENTER PAR; TROPICAL DEPRESSION ‘OFEL’ TO ENTER ON TUESDAY

Three tropical cyclones could enter the Philippine region this week according to the state weather bureau (Photo courtesy of PAGASA/GMA News)

Even though Typhoon ‘Nika’ has not yet left the Philippine area of ​​responsibility (PAR), two more weather disturbances are threatening to hit the country. According to the state weather bureau, the low pressure area (LPA) outside PAR has developed into a tropical depression.

PAGASA administrator Nathaniel Servando said that aside from Severe Tropical Storm Nika, they are also monitoring two more vortices which may be named “Ofel” and “Pepito”, respectively, should they enter the PAR.

The tropical depression was spotted 1,480 kilometers Eastern Visayas, packing winds of 55 kilometers per hour and up to 70 kph gusts. Once it enters the Philippines, it will be given the local name ‘Ofel’. 

According to PAGASA, it will continuously intensify while crossing the Philippine Sea. It may reach typhoon strength before making landfall over northern or central Luzon late Thursday (14 November) or early Friday (15 November) and may leave PAR by Saturday (November 16).

“The TD is forecast to intensify into a severe tropical storm within the next 48 hours and may reach its peak intensity as a severe storm prior to landfall. However, the possibility of reaching typhoon category is not ruled out.”

PAGASA warned northern Luzon residents of heavy rainfall, severe winds, and possible storm surge inundation that could cause considerable impacts during the passage of the storm.

“Of course, they’re too far still and it’s too early to say, but DOST-PAGASA will continue monitoring closely not only Nika but the potential two other vortices that may enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility between November 10 and November 16,” Servando said.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said “Between November 11 and November 17, we will have three typhoons entering the Philippines, all in the same path. So far, Pepito looks like heading in the same path too, but we’re not sure yet.”

“So between Typhoon Marce and Pepito, that makes four typhoons in 10 days, following the same trajectory,” he added.

The state weather bureau is now monitoring four tropical cyclones inside and outside PAR. Pepito’s landfall may be between November 16 and 17, and may head towards Bicol or Eastern Visayas.

Source: GMA Integrated News 

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