Super Typhoon Pepito (international name: Man-Yi) is poised to make catastrophic landfall on the eastern coast of Catanduanes tonight, bringing life-threatening winds, torrential rains, and hazardous storm surges. According to PAGASA’s Tropical Cyclone Bulletin issued at 8 p.m., the typhoon continues to strengthen, posing an extreme threat to life and property across affected regions.
Pepito’s Devastating Winds and Rain
As of 7 p.m., the center of Pepito was located just off the coastal waters of Gigmoto, Catanduanes. The typhoon packs maximum sustained winds of 195 km/h, gusts reaching 240 km/h, and a central pressure of 920 hPa. Strong to typhoon-force winds extend outward up to 300 kilometers, placing large swathes of Luzon and Visayas under immediate threat.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 5, the highest warning level, remains in effect for Catanduanes and northeastern Camarines Sur. Residents in these areas face devastating winds capable of uprooting trees, destroying homes, and rendering critical infrastructure unusable. Authorities have issued urgent evacuation orders, warning of extreme damage.
Meanwhile, TCWS No. 4 has been raised for portions of Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Albay. These regions are expected to endure severe winds and significant destruction. Lower wind signals, from TCWS No. 3 to No. 1, cover a vast area, including parts of Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and Northern Samar.
Storm Surge and Coastal Hazards
PAGASA predicts storm surges exceeding 3 meters along the eastern coasts of Catanduanes, Quezon, and Northern Samar, extending to Metro Manila and CALABARZON. These surges are expected to flood low-lying areas, displacing residents and causing widespread damage. Additionally, maritime travel is considered highly dangerous, with wave heights of up to 14 meters forecast in some coastal waters.
Landfall and Track Forecast
Pepito is expected to make landfall in Catanduanes between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. tonight. There remains a possibility, albeit slim, that the storm could veer slightly, sparing Catanduanes from a direct hit while still exposing the region to the typhoon’s violent eyewall.
After crossing Catanduanes, Pepito is projected to move west-northwestward, skirting the coasts of Camarines provinces. It will likely pass near Polillo Islands before making a second landfall over northern Quezon or southern Aurora tomorrow afternoon. The typhoon will then traverse Luzon, causing significant weakening but likely maintaining typhoon status as it emerges over the West Philippine Sea by Monday morning.
Rainfall and Inland Hazards
The typhoon’s heavy rainfall outlook predicts torrential rains exceeding 200 mm in Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, and Quezon tonight, with widespread flooding and landslides expected in mountainous areas. Metro Manila, CALABARZON, and parts of Central Luzon may see rainfall intensifying tomorrow, further complicating rescue and relief efforts.
Authorities Urge Immediate Action
Authorities are urging the public to take the typhoon warnings seriously. “Residents in high-risk areas must evacuate immediately. The storm’s impacts could be catastrophic,” PAGASA warned. Emergency services and local government units have been placed on high alert to respond to potential disasters.
PAGASA’s next advisory will be issued at 11 p.m.
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.