Manila: Typhoon Uwan has intensified as it approaches the Bicol Region, according to the latest advisory from the weather bureau. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that the center of Typhoon Uwan is currently situated 380 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes.
According to Philippines News Agency, the typhoon is packing maximum sustained winds of 155 kilometers per hour near the center, with gustiness reaching up to 190 kilometers per hour. The typhoon is projected to move west-northwestward on Sunday. Based on the current forecast, the eye of Uwan might pass close to Catanduanes on Sunday morning and potentially make landfall over Aurora by Sunday evening or early Monday morning.
PAGASA highlighted the increasing possibility of a slight southward shift in the typhoon’s path. This shift could result in either a direct hit, with the eyewall affecting Catanduanes without making landfall, or an actual landfall scenario over the area. As a precaut
ion, Signal No. 4 has been raised in Catanduanes.
Signal No. 3 warnings have been issued for various regions in Luzon and the Visayas, including Aurora, parts of Quezon, and Northern Samar. Signal No. 2 is in effect for numerous other areas, including parts of Cagayan, Isabela, and Metro Manila. Signal No. 1 covers regions such as Batanes, Babuyan Islands, and parts of Mindanao.
PAGASA has warned of the high risk of life-threatening storm surges, with peak heights potentially exceeding three meters, expected over the next 48 hours in low-lying coastal communities. A gale warning is currently in place for the seaboards of Northern and Central Luzon, as well as parts of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
After making landfall, Typhoon Uwan is forecast to traverse the mountainous terrain of Northern Luzon and emerge over Lingayen Gulf or the coastal waters of Pangasinan or La Union by Monday morning. The typhoon is expected to rapidly intensify, possibly reaching super typhoon status on Sunday, although t
he potential for even faster intensification is not ruled out due to favorable environmental conditions. Despite the anticipated weakening as it interacts with the terrain, Uwan is expected to maintain its typhoon status throughout its passage over Northern Luzon.
