Super Typhoon Pepito continues to unleash its fury over the province of Quirino, maintaining its dangerous strength and leaving communities bracing for widespread damage. As of 4 p.m. on Sunday, the storm was located in the vicinity of Nagtipunan, Quirino, packing sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching a staggering 305 kph. Pepito is moving northwestward at 25 kph, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Devastation Looms as Wind Signal No. 5 Persists
PAGASA has maintained Wind Signal No. 5 over parts of Aurora, Quirino, and Nueva Vizcaya, signifying an extreme threat to life and property. Communities in these areas are warned of violent winds capable of toppling structures, uprooting trees, and causing widespread power outages.
Residents in Aurora and Quirino reported severe weather conditions, including torrential rain and ferocious winds that disrupted daily activities and forced hundreds to evacuate. Local officials have urged people to remain indoors and follow safety protocols, emphasizing the heightened risks of flying debris and flooding in low-lying areas.
Northwestward Path Raises Concerns for Northern Luzon
Super Typhoon Pepito’s northwestward trajectory places additional provinces in Luzon at risk, including Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, and parts of northern Luzon. While the storm is expected to weaken slightly as it traverses land, its intensity remains a significant concern.
Authorities are closely monitoring the storm’s impact, particularly in mountainous regions where heavy rain could trigger landslides and flash floods. PAGASA emphasized that the storm’s destructive winds and rainbands extend far beyond its center, posing threats to areas even outside its direct path.
Coastal Areas on High Alert
Along with the fierce winds, coastal communities are bracing for possible storm surges, especially in Aurora and northern Quezon. PAGASA has issued warnings for dangerous sea conditions, advising mariners and fisherfolk to avoid sea travel until the storm subsides. Gale-force winds continue to batter the eastern seaboard, adding to the storm’s already significant impact.
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.