The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has refuted a viral social media claim suggesting that 25 typhoons are set to strike the country in 2024. This misleading information, which spread widely following Tropical Storm Trami’s destructive impact in October, has caused public alarm and concern online.
False Claim of 25 Typhoons
The misinformation originated from a Visayan-language post shared thousands of times on Facebook. The post claimed that the names of 25 typhoons, allegedly listed by PAGASA, indicated storms that would directly impact the Philippines this year. The post, posted after Tropical Storm Trami caused extensive damage, exacerbated fears among residents still recovering from previous storms.
“This is so crazy, our roofs will go flying again,” commented one concerned user. “We can only pray on this.”
However, PAGASA quickly clarified that the circulated list is simply a pre-prepared roster of names for potential storms within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), not a forecast for actual typhoons bound to hit the country.
PAGASA Sets the Record Straight
Marco Polo Ibanez, a PAGASA research specialist, explained to AFP on Nov. 4 that the list is created annually and does not imply that each name will be used within the year. “The list doesn’t mean all these storms will happen; it’s just a naming roster,” he said, adding that the current climatology makes it “very unlikely” for 25 storms to hit in 2024.
According to PAGASA’s data, as of November 7, only 13 tropical cyclones have entered PAR, with Typhoon Marce as the latest. Based on historical trends, Ibanez estimated that only two to four additional cyclones could affect the country by year’s end.
The Impact of Misinformation
Misinformation about weather events frequently surfaces on social media after major storms, heightening public anxiety. “False claims like these create unnecessary panic,” Ibanez stressed, urging the public to rely on verified sources.
PAGASA’s projections on their website adhere to data-driven climatology, aiming to provide clear and accurate information. The agency cautions against spreading unverified posts and advises citizens to follow official updates to stay accurately informed about impending weather risks.
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.