Super Typhoon Pepito (international name Man-Yi) has intensified further, bringing potentially catastrophic winds and life-threatening storm surge to the northeastern Bicol region and other areas of Luzon. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued Tropical Cyclone Bulletin No. 10 at 2 p.m. on Nov. 16, 2024, warning residents of dire impacts as the storm approaches.
Typhoon’s Path and Strength
At 1 p.m., the center of Pepito was located approximately 200 kilometers east of Juban, Sorsogon, packing maximum sustained winds of 195 km/h and gusts reaching up to 240 km/h. Moving west-northwest at 20 km/h, Pepito’s wide reach of typhoon-force winds extends up to 300 kilometers from its center. PAGASA projects landfall near Catanduanes tonight or early tomorrow, with the super typhoon possibly maintaining or intensifying its strength before landfall.
Impacted Areas and Warnings
Several provinces in Luzon and the Visayas are under varying levels of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS). Catanduanes remains under TCWS No. 5, indicating extreme threats to life and property with sustained winds above 185 km/h. Albay, Camarines Sur, and Camarines Norte face significant to severe threats under TCWS No. 4. Lower-level warnings have been issued for surrounding provinces, with heavy rainfall and storm surges expected to exacerbate risks.
PAGASA forecasts torrential rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters over Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, and Camarines Norte through tomorrow noon. Coastal areas face storm surge heights of up to 14 meters, particularly in Catanduanes, Albay, and Northern Samar. Gale warnings are in effect across multiple seaboards, urging mariners to suspend travel immediately.
Preparations and Public Advisory
Authorities urge residents in high-risk areas to evacuate and comply with local disaster response measures. The typhoon may weaken as it traverses Luzon but is expected to remain a typhoon until exiting into the West Philippine Sea on Monday. PAGASA warns that significant impacts may occur even outside Pepito’s forecast track due to its extensive size.
The public is advised to monitor updates and heed evacuation orders. PAGASA’s next bulletin will be issued at 5 p.m. today.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.