Typhoon Nika made landfall over Dilasag, Aurora, early Monday, intensifying concerns across Northern Luzon as it traverses the region with typhoon-force winds and heavy rainfall. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued Tropical Cyclone Bulletin No. 13, alerting communities to the storm’s path and potential hazards. As of 10:00 a.m., Nika was located near San Agustin, Isabela, carrying maximum sustained winds of 130 km/h and gusts reaching up to 180 km/h.
Extensive Wind Signals Issued
With Nika’s northwestward trajectory at 25 km/h, PAGASA raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 4 over parts of Aurora, Isabela, Kalinga, and several areas in the Mountain Province and Ilocos Sur, anticipating severe threats to life and property from winds of up to 184 km/h. Areas under TCWS No. 3, including parts of Quirino, Cagayan, and Nueva Vizcaya, can expect storm-force winds that pose moderate to significant risks. Lesser wind signals were issued across other regions of Northern and Central Luzon, with PAGASA cautioning that even areas outside the forecast track may experience strong winds and dangerous conditions.
Risk of Storm Surges and Rough Seas
Along with destructive winds, Nika brings high storm surge risks to low-lying coastal areas, notably in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and parts of Cagayan, Aurora, and Quezon provinces. PAGASA warned that storm surges could inundate coastal zones, endangering both lives and properties. Additionally, gale warnings remain in effect for several eastern seaboards, including those of Cagayan and Aurora, as seas are expected to become extremely rough, making sea travel perilous. The agency has advised all mariners and small sea vessels to avoid setting out and to seek shelter immediately.
Monitoring and Preparedness Urged
PAGASA anticipates Typhoon Nika to weaken into a severe tropical storm as it crosses Luzon’s landmass, although residents should still brace for continuous rain and gusty winds until it exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Tuesday morning. Disaster response teams and local officials have been urged to prepare evacuation plans and other necessary actions to minimize casualties. Communities are advised to stay informed through regular updates and follow local government instructions for safety.
The next weather bulletin is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. to provide further details on Nika’s movement and impact areas.
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.