Super Typhoon Ofel (international name: Usagi) has set off storm surge warnings across six provinces of Luzon as it intensifies and nears landfall. On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) announced the potential for significant storm surges just 48 hours before the typhoon was expected to make landfall.
Veronica Torres, a weather expert from Pagasa, stated, "Ofel is anticipated to make landfall between noon and 5 p.m., particularly near Cagayan." This timely forecast has prompted widespread alerts and preparation efforts among local authorities and residents.
The six provinces under the storm surge warning include the likes of Batanes, Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Isabela, and Aurora. Each of these areas may experience surges ranging from 2.1 to 3.0 meters high. Pagasa elaborated, emphasizing the need for residents, particularly those living along the coasts, to stay informed and heed safety measures.
For communities within the path of such powerful surges, the consequences could be severe. A storm surge of 2.1 to 3.0 meters is expected to create moderate to significant damage, whereas one measuring between 1.0 to 2.0 meters poses risks of minimal to moderate impacts. Consequently, Pagasa is urging individuals to avoid coastal areas, cancel any marine activities, and consistently monitor updates from the agency.
At present, Ofel is tracked at approximately 165 kilometers east-southeast of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, with maximum sustained winds clocking at 185 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching up to 230 kilometers per hour. The storm is currently moving northwestward at 15 kilometers per hour and gaining more strength as it approaches land.
The situation on the ground is tense, with many citizens beginning to evacuate low-lying coastal communities. Preparations are underway, and local governments are mobilizing resources to assist those affected by the impending storm surge and heavy rainfall.
Meanwhile, across the region, another storm, Tropical Storm Toraji, recently passed through Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Observatory had raised the warning to No 8, indicating significant winds and weather disturbances, before lowering it to No 1 at around 10:20 pm on Thursday. This was following 11 hours of high alert, which left residents bracing for impact. Forecasters speculate the area will next experience cooler temperatures coupled with sporadic rain patches courtesy of a strong northeast monsoon expected to sweep through southern China.
Outside of the immediate impact of these storms, concerns for flooding and landslides linger, particularly as Ofel makes its presence felt. Time will tell as authorities continue to monitor these powerful weather systems and their potential to disrupt lives across the impacted regions.
Communities with their backs against the wall are relying on advance warnings from Pagasa and regional meteorological services to navigate these storms. The near-future forecast indicates Ofel will reach Luzon before shifting toward the South China Sea, potentially affecting not only the waters around the Philippines but also impacting weather patterns as far-reaching as Hong Kong.
Because of the unique geographical positioning of the Philippines and its adjacent regions, such storms can bring about life-threatening conditions. Residents are reminded to prepare evacuation kits, stay updated via news channels, and remain vigilant as they contend with these tempestuous weather challenges.
All eyes will now be on Ofel as it progresses through Luzon, with disaster response teams standing by and ready for mobilization depending on the scale of impact. The Philippine government remains actively engaged, collaborating with local agencies and communities to manage the effects and risks associated with typhoon season.
