Signal No. 5 possible due to ‘Nando’ - PAGASA

Metro Manila, Philippines - Government meteorologists warned of the possibility of raising the highest storm alert level for Typhoon “Nando” (international name: Ragasa).

They also advised the public to prepare for a possible super typhoon scenario by Sunday evening, as the storm approaches extreme northern Luzon.

In the 11 p.m. bulletin on Saturday, Sept. 20, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) listed the areas under Signal No. 1 as follows:

Batanes, Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, Isabela, Quirino, Apayao, Kalinga, Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, Nueva Vizcaya, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, the eastern portion of Pangasinan, the northern portion of Nueva Ecija, the northern and central portions of Aurora, and the northern and central portions of Catanduanes

PAGASA said winds in areas under Signal 1 may pose minimal to minor impact.

It says moderate to heavy rains may occur in Batanes, Cagayan, Zambales, and Bataan on Saturday to Sunday evening.

PAGASA said Bicol, Eastern Visayas, and Caraga could encounter strong to gale-force gusts.

The bureau also raised a storm surge warning in the next 48 hours in Batanes, Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Norte, and Ilocos Sur.

Authorities said there could be significant heavy rainfall in other areas in Luzon on Sunday

“Nando” was last spotted 695 kilometers (km) east of Tuguegarao Cityo, Cagayan, with center winds of 155 km per hour (kph) and gustiness of up to 190 kph.

It is seen to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Tuesday morning.