Metro Manila, Philippines – “Opong” intensified into a tropical storm on early Wednesday, Sept. 24, with the likelihood of raising Signal No. 1 over parts of Visayas and Mindanao within the day.
In its 5 a.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said it may hoist the lowest wind signal over northeastern Mindanao, Eastern Visayas, and Bicol Region on Wednesday.
“Opong” is expected to approach the Eastern Visayas and southern Luzon area.
PAGASA added Wind Signal No. 3 may eventually be raised as “Opong” is expected to reach severe tropical storm category on Thursday evening and it could further intensify after crossing land.
“Opong” may make landfall over Bicol Region on Friday afternoon, cross southern Luzon until Saturday morning, then leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Saturday evening or Sunday morning.
“It must be emphasized that heavy rainfall, severe winds, and storm surge may still be experienced in localities outside the landfall point and the forecast confidence cone,” PAGASA warned.
“Opong” was last seen 855 kilometers (km) east of Northeastern Mindanao, packing maximum sustained winds of 65 km per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph.
The bureau said the southwest monsoon or habagat was strengthened by “Opong” and Super Typhoon Nando, which left PAR on Tuesday.
