Typhoon Kristine Intensifies, Threatens Northern Luzon

Tropical Storm Kristine has strengthened as it continues its westward journey towards the Philippine archipelago.

 The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued an update on the storm's trajectory and potential impacts.

As of 11:00 AM on October 22, 2024, the center of Kristine was located approximately 335 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes. The storm is moving at a speed of 10 kilometers per hour in a west-northwestward direction. 

 

Wind Signals and Impacts:

    Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 has been raised over Catanduanes.
    Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 has been raised over several provinces in Luzon, including:

•         Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan
•         Apayao, Kalinga, Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet
•         Cagayan (including Babuyan Islands), Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya
•         Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan
•         Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon (including Polillo Islands)
•         Masbate (including Ticao Island, Burias Island), Marinduque, Romblon
•         Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon

    Severe Winds: Strong to gale-force winds are expected in many areas, especially in coastal and mountainous regions. This could lead to minor to moderate impacts in areas under Wind Signal No. 2 and minimal to minor impacts in areas under Wind Signal No. 1.

    Coastal Inundation: A moderate to high risk of life-threatening storm surge exists in the next 48 hours over low-lying coastal areas of Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Albay, Aurora, Isabela, and Cagayan.

    Hazards Affecting Coastal Waters: A Gale Warning is in effect for the eastern seaboard of Luzon, the southern seaboard of Southern Luzon, and the eastern seaboard of Visayas.

Forecast Track and Intensity:

•     Kristine is expected to make landfall over Isabela or northern Aurora on October 23 or 24.
•     The storm is forecast to gradually intensify into a severe tropical storm before making landfall.
•     Kristine may reach typhoon category before exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

Residents in affected areas are advised to:

•     Stay updated: Monitor weather reports and follow the instructions of local authorities.
•     Prepare for possible evacuation: Have an emergency kit ready and know your evacuation routes.
•     Be aware of storm surge risks: If you live in a low-lying area, be prepared to evacuate.
•     Secure your property: Bring in loose objects and avoid outdoor activities during strong winds.

For more information, please refer to the latest bulletins from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).