Manila: Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-Wong) is rapidly intensifying as it moves closer to Luzon, with a possible super typhoon landfall in Aurora province by Sunday night or early Monday. In its 5 a.m. advisory Sunday, PAGASA said Uwan was last spotted 195 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, packing maximum sustained winds of 175 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center, gusts of up to 215 kph, and moving west-northwest at 35 kph.
According to Philippines News Agency, the typhoon’s strong to typhoon-force winds now extend up to 800 kilometers from its center, wide enough to blanket much of Luzon and parts of the Visayas with intense rains and destructive winds. PAGASA said Uwan could reach super typhoon status before making landfall in Aurora or nearby provinces late Sunday or early Monday, and is forecast to cross northern Luzon overnight and exit via the Lingayen Gulf on Monday morning.
Even areas far from the projected landfall are warned of heavy rainfall, storm surges of more than three meters, and winds reaching gale to typhoon strength. PAGASA hoisted Signal No. 4 in the following areas, where typhoon-force winds are expected: Polillo Islands; eastern and central Camarines Norte; eastern Camarines Sur; Catanduanes; and eastern Albay.
Signal No. 3 is in effect for several regions including Southern Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, and others, indicating significant impact from the typhoon. Areas under Signal No. 2 and Signal No. 1 are also warned of potential risks, with specific provinces listed under each signal.
PAGASA also warned of dangerous sea conditions, with waves as high as 14 meters expected along eastern Luzon and life-threatening storm surges in coastal areas. All sea travel remains risky, with gale warnings raised over most eastern and northern seaboards. The weather bureau is urging residents in high-risk areas to evacuate early and avoid complacency.
Heavy rains, floods, landslides, and destructive winds are expected even outside the landfall zone. Typhoon Uwan is expected to dump torrential rains across Bicol, Aurora, and northern Luzon through Monday.
