Super Typhoon Pepito (Man-Yi) made landfall in the vicinity of Dipaculao, Aurora, at 3:20 p.m. on Sunday, packing maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts up to 230 km/h, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The storm has created a life-threatening situation for Central Luzon as it moves northwestward at 20 km/h, unleashing torrential rains, destructive winds, and coastal surges.
PAGASA has placed multiple provinces under various levels of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS), with the central portion of Aurora under TCWS No. 5, signaling extreme winds and catastrophic conditions. Authorities are urging residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate as the storm poses an extreme threat to life and property.
Aurora and Quirino Brace for Impact
Residents of Aurora and neighboring provinces like Quirino and Nueva Vizcaya are experiencing the brunt of Pepito’s force. PAGASA warned that areas under TCWS No. 5, including Dipaculao, Baler, and San Luis, will face catastrophic winds exceeding 185 km/h, capable of destroying homes, toppling trees, and downing power lines.
The storm’s path cuts through the northern portion of Central Luzon, impacting upland areas of the Sierra Madre, Caraballo, and Cordillera Central. Heavy rainfall and the possibility of flash floods and landslides remain a significant concern in these regions, with PAGASA advising caution and preparedness.
Local officials in Aurora have mobilized disaster response teams, urging residents in low-lying and coastal areas to relocate to evacuation centers. Relief operations have been set up to address the immediate needs of affected communities.
Storm Surge and Coastal Risks
Pepito’s landfall brings the threat of storm surges, with coastal inundation projected to reach over 3.0 meters in low-lying areas. PAGASA has emphasized the dangers to coastal regions in Ilocos, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila. Residents are advised to stay away from the shorelines, as rough seas make sea travel dangerous even for large vessels.
The gale warning remains in effect, extending to the eastern and western seaboards of Luzon. Mariners and fishermen are warned to remain in port until conditions improve.
Central Luzon Under Siege
As Pepito crosses Central Luzon, multiple provinces, including Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan, and Benguet, are under TCWS No. 4, indicating typhoon-force winds. These areas will experience significant damage to infrastructure and agriculture. Meanwhile, areas under TCWS No. 3 and No. 2, including portions of Isabela and Tarlac, are advised to prepare for moderate to severe impacts.
In Metro Manila, placed under TCWS No. 2, the local government has issued advisories urging preparedness for gale-force winds and heavy rainfall. Disaster response teams are on standby, with emergency hotlines activated to assist residents.
A Challenging Typhoon Season
Super Typhoon Pepito is the latest in a series of tropical cyclones that have battered the Philippines in recent months. The unusual frequency and intensity of these storms have been attributed to climate change, exacerbating the challenges faced by communities in their wake.
“This typhoon season has been relentless,” said PAGASA spokesperson Joey Figuracion. “The global climate crisis is creating conditions for stronger and more frequent storms, which severely impact our communities.”
Pepito is expected to weaken as it traverses Luzon, though it will likely remain a typhoon as it exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Monday morning. PAGASA has urged the public to remain vigilant, as heavy rains, winds, and storm surges can still affect areas outside the immediate path of the storm.
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.