Manila: ‘Nika’ is anticipated to make landfall in either Aurora or Isabela on Monday as it intensifies into a typhoon, according to the latest reports. The severe tropical storm, which has slightly intensified over the Philippine Sea, was located 425 kilometers east of Infanta, Quezon province, as of 2 p.m. Sunday, based on data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

According to Philippines News Agency, PAGASA forecasts that ‘Nika’ will reach typhoon status by Sunday and achieve peak intensity prior to its expected landfall on Monday morning or early afternoon. After making landfall, the storm is projected to continue its path west-northwest over the West Philippine Sea and could leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Tuesday afternoon or evening. A brief weakening period is expected as ‘Nika’ crosses Luzon’s landmass due to land interaction, though re-intensification is possible once it traverses the West Philippine Sea.

Tropical Cyclone Win
d Signal No. 2 has been raised in several provinces, including the northern and central portions of Aurora, Isabela, Quirino, the southern part of Cagayan, Nueva Vizcaya, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, the eastern portion of Benguet, the northern portion of Nueva Ecija, and the northeastern portion of Pangasinan. Meanwhile, Signal No. 1 is in effect in other areas such as the rest of Cagayan, Apayao, Abra, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, the eastern and remaining parts of Pangasinan, La Union, the rest of Benguet, the rest of Aurora, Tarlac, and various other regions.

Residents in affected areas are advised to stay updated on weather advisories, as ‘Nika’ continues to pose potential hazards such as strong winds and heavy rainfall. Authorities are urging communities to prepare for possible disruptions and to ensure safety measures are in place.