Typhoon Pepito (international name: MAN-YI) has weakened after making landfall, but it continues to pose a severe threat to Luzon, bringing life-threatening winds, torrential rains, and dangerous storm surges. As of 8 p.m. on November 17, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that Pepito is now situated over Nueva Vizcaya, maintaining maximum sustained winds of 165 kilometers per hour (kph) and gusts of up to 275 kph.
Pepito’s Impact: Severe Winds and Heavy Rainfall
The center of Typhoon Pepito was located in the vicinity of Santa Fe, Nueva Vizcaya, at 7 p.m. on Sunday, moving west-northwestward at 25 kph. Typhoon-force winds extend outward up to 300 kilometers from the center, affecting several provinces under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS).
Areas under TCWS No. 4, including Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, and parts of Pangasinan and Benguet, are experiencing significant to severe wind threats. These winds could cause extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture, endangering lives and livelihoods. PAGASA warned that moderate to significant impacts are also expected in areas under TCWS No. 3, such as Isabela, Mountain Province, and parts of Ilocos Sur and Abra.
Torrential rains accompanying Pepito are expected to cause flash floods and landslides, particularly in upland areas. PAGASA has issued a high-risk warning for life-threatening storm surges, with water levels potentially exceeding three meters in coastal regions, including Ilocos, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila.
Maritime Hazards: Risky Sea Conditions
Pepito’s presence has made sea travel extremely dangerous. Gale warnings have been issued for the eastern seaboard of Luzon and the western seaboards of Northern and Central Luzon. Coastal waters are forecast to experience waves as high as nine meters, particularly in the seaboards of Aurora and Isabela. PAGASA has advised mariners to remain in port or seek shelter until conditions improve.
Smaller vessels are also advised to avoid venturing into sea areas with moderate to rough conditions, such as the seaboards of Bataan and Quezon.
Track and Forecast: Luzon Exit Imminent
Pepito is expected to exit Luzon via Pangasinan, La Union, or southern Ilocos Sur between late Sunday night and early Monday morning. During this time, the typhoon will likely weaken further due to land interaction but is expected to regain strength as it moves over the West Philippine Sea.
PAGASA forecasts that Pepito will leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Monday morning or noon. Beyond PAR, the storm is projected to move westward or west-southwestward under the influence of an incoming northeasterly wind surge, which will create unfavorable conditions for intensification.
Government Advisories and Precautions
Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to take all necessary precautions to protect lives and property. Local disaster management offices have been instructed to implement evacuation plans in flood- and landslide-prone areas. PAGASA emphasized that even areas outside the direct path of Pepito may experience severe weather, underscoring the importance of vigilance.
The public is advised to monitor updates from PAGASA, including severe weather bulletins and rainfall advisories, to remain informed about Pepito’s developments. The next tropical cyclone bulletin is expected at 11 p.m. Sunday.
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.