As many as five to nine additional tropical cyclones could enter or develop within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) before the year ends.
According to PAGASA Deputy Administrator Marcelino Villafuerte II, the country has already experienced 15 storms so far this year, including Typhoon Opong.
Villafuerte said that two to four cyclones are expected in October, another two to three in November, and one to two in December.
He explained that the average number of tropical cyclones affecting the Philippines annually is around 19 to 20.
With the projected five to nine more storms, the country would still fall within the normal range, unless the count reaches the upper limit, in which case it could exceed the average.
Villafuerte added that the upcoming storms are not expected to be particularly strong.
However, he emphasized that strict preparedness remains essential.
