Super Typhoon Pepito has intensified significantly, prompting weather officials to issue warnings as it approaches the Philippines. By Saturday afternoon, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) upgraded the alert status to Signal No. 5 over Catanduanes, indicating the highest level of threat for the region. The super typhoon, previously labeled with lower intensity, has quickly escalated, creating concerns for the northeastern Bicol region.
According to PAGASA's latest update, Pepito is currently positioned approximately 200 kilometers east of Juban, Sorsogon. With maximum sustained winds of 195 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts reaching up to 240 kilometers per hour, the storm is moving west-northwest at 20 kilometers per hour. The weather bureau emphasized the need for heightened vigilance, particularly for areas under the storm signal.
Alongside Catanduanes under Signal No. 5, PAGASA has issued the following warnings: Signal No. 4 for portions of Camarines Sur and Albay, and Signal No. 3 covering several coastal areas. These regions are expected to face severe weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rainfall.
With Pepito's anticipated landfall happening tonight or early Sunday morning, local authorities are pressing communities to heed evacuation orders and take protective measures. The intensity of the storm is classified as potentially catastrophic, meaning it poses life-threatening scenarios for those unprepared.
PAGASA’s declaration came alongside reminders of the heightened risk of storm surges, particularly along the western coast of the Ilocos Region and across Central Luzon, Metro Manila, and the Bicol Region. These storm surges have the potential to reach over three meters high, particularly affecting low-lying coastal areas.
The agency has been tracking Pepito’s movements closely, stating it may experience some weakening once it crosses over land. Nonetheless, the impact of the storm could bring severe disruptions, especially across the Central Luzon region as it continues its path.
Looking at the forecast track, Pepito is expected to shift its movement to the west-southwest by Monday, with its potential to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility soon after making landfall over the weekend. Authorities are mindful of conditions changing at max intensity and are preparing for the worst, urging everyone to remain alert and informed.
Local governments have initiated preparedness protocols, including setting up evacuation centers and dissemining information about safety measures. The Bureau of Fire Protection and local response teams are on standby as residents brace for the impending weather disturbances the typhoon will bring.
Communities are advised to secure loose outdoor items, prepare emergency kits, and stay tuned for updates from PAGASA as the situation evolves. Schools and other public places have been proactive, planning preventive closures to safeguard citizens from the anticipated impact of Super Typhoon Pepito.
PAGASA’s cross-analysis retains optimism, noting the forecast for the storm’s movement, but emphasizes precaution and adherence to safety recommendations might mitigate potential tragedies resulting from such extreme weather events. They continue to monitor developments closely for reopening the affected areas once it is safe to do so.
All eyes remain on Super Typhoon Pepito and its path over the next few days, with urgent calls for diligence to prevent loss of life and property as the Philippines faces another strong weather threat.
