MANILA — Typhoon ‘Nika’ (international name Toraji) has intensified, packing maximum sustained winds of 120 kph and gusts up to 150 kph, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
As of 4 AM Monday, Nika was located 100 km east-southeast of Casiguran, Aurora, and is expected to make landfall in Isabela or northern Aurora later today.
PAGASA has issued Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4 in the northernmost parts of Aurora, southern Isabela, southeastern Abra, and various areas in Mountain Province, Ifugao, and Kalinga. Typhoon-force winds are anticipated in these regions, while Signal No. 3 is in effect for nearby areas like northern Aurora, northeastern Nueva Vizcaya, and parts of Ilocos Norte, among others.
Under Signal No. 2, gale-force winds are expected across central and northern portions of Luzon, including La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, and portions of Quezon and Camarines Norte.
In areas under Signal No. 1, strong winds are forecast for parts of Metro Manila, Pampanga, Zambales, and several provinces in Luzon, including some areas of Batangas and Cavite.
PAGASA also warned of a moderate to high risk of storm surges in low-lying coastal areas in the affected regions, including parts of Ilocos Norte, Zambales, Quezon, and Catanduanes. Gale warnings are in effect for the eastern seaboard of Luzon and the northern and western seaboards of Northern Luzon.
Nika is expected to strengthen further before making landfall. PAGASA continues to monitor the storm closely and advises residents in affected areas to take necessary precautions.
ia/mnm
