MANILA – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a forecast indicating that Tropical Storm Kabayan is likely to make landfall along the coast of Davao Oriental or southern Surigao del Sur today, Monday (18 Dec 2023).
Several areas are now placed under Signal No. 2 in anticipation of the storm’s impact.
Kabayan, last tracked over the coastal waters of Caraga, Davao Oriental, is projected to potentially make another landfall over central or southern Palawan on Tuesday, emerging over the West Philippine Sea thereafter. The storm is currently packing maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near the center, with gustiness reaching up to 80 kph.
As of the latest update, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2 has been raised over various areas, including Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte (including Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands), Surigao del Sur, and parts of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur. Gale-force winds are expected in these regions.
TCWS No. 1 has been hoisted over the southern portion of mainland Palawan, Cagayancillo Islands, Southern Leyte, Leyte, parts of Samar and Eastern Samar, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, and several other areas.
Signal No. 1 indicates the likelihood of strong winds in the affected areas, according to PAGASA. The weather bureau also warns of potential heavy rainfall over the eastern portion of Southern Luzon, particularly in elevated or mountainous areas. Flooding and rain-induced landslides are anticipated, especially in regions highly susceptible to these hazards.
Rough to very rough seas are forecast along the coastal waters of Northern Luzon, the eastern and central seaboards of the Visayas, and the eastern seaboards of Central and Southern Luzon, and Mindanao. Small sea vessels are advised to remain in port, and mariners are urged to seek safe harbor due to the risky sea travel conditions.
(JR AMIGO/ai/mnm)
