Super Typhoon Bavi is projected to strengthen the southwest monsoon (habagat), threatening to dump heavy rains across the western portions of Luzon and the Visayas toward the weekend.
The state weather bureau, PAGASA, reported that the cyclone was spotted 2,120 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon at 3 p.m. on Monday. Moving west-northwest at 20 kph, the super typhoon will be locally named “Inday” the moment it breaches the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando indicated that the storm is holding its course and is on track for an imminent arrival.
”There’s a slim chance that the cyclone will change its direction. Although it is expected to consistently move towards Northern Taiwan, it is still likely to enter PAR by late Tuesday or early Wednesday,” Servando shared in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.
Given its projected path toward Northern Taiwan and the northernmost edges of the Philippines, most of the typhoon’s core moisture will likely dissolve over the sea. Nonetheless, its pulling effect on the monsoon poses a significant risk to the western side of the country.
”We advise those residing in flash flood and landslide-prone areas to take precautions,” Servando warned.
He noted that the enhanced monsoon is also expected to whip up dangerous sea conditions across a large portion of Luzon.
As the weather agency braces for potential disruptions along the country’s northern and eastern boundaries, officials are preparing to issue public storm alerts.
”Based on our latest forecast track, Bavi could directly affect the northern and eastern parts of Northern Luzon. Wind signals may be hoisted starting tomorrow,” he said.
While the primary threat is concentrated in the north, PAGASA is also keeping a close watch on Southern Luzon and Eastern Visayas for possible wind signal raising.
With the inclement weather approaching, Servando reminded citizens “to remain vigilant and stay informed through official weather advisories.”