Typhoon Marce, now strengthened with maximum sustained winds of 140 km/h and gusts reaching up to 170 km/h, is intensifying as it moves west-northwestward over the Philippine Sea.
The storm’s center was last estimated at 415 km east-northeast of Echague, Isabela, or 395 km east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, heading toward Northern Luzon at a speed of 15 km/h.
Typhoon Signal Warnings Raised
- Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 is in effect for northeastern Cagayan, covering Santa Ana and Gonzaga, with 24 hours of warning for gale-force winds. These areas should expect wind speeds ranging from 62 to 88 km/h, posing a minor to moderate risk to life and property.
- Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 covers Batanes, the remainder of Cagayan (including Babuyan Islands), Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Apayao, Abra, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, parts of Benguet, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and northern Aurora. This warning indicates strong winds between 39 and 61 km/h with minimal to minor impact expected.
Heavy Rainfall and Coastal Hazards Expected
Residents are advised to stay alert for heavy rainfall warnings and severe wind gusts, especially in coastal and upland regions exposed to direct winds.
Meanwhile, a moderate to high risk of life-threatening storm surges is anticipated along the coastlines of Batanes, Cagayan (including Babuyan Islands), Isabela, and Ilocos Norte, with water levels expected to rise between 2.0 and 3.0 meters above normal tides within the next 48 hours.
Sea Conditions Warning
The 24-hour sea condition outlook warns of very rough to high seas, especially over northeastern Cagayan, Batanes, Babuyan Islands, and surrounding seaboards, with wave heights reaching up to 8.0 meters. Mariners and vessels are strongly advised to remain in port or seek immediate shelter until conditions improve.
Forecast Track and Intensity
Typhoon Marce is expected to move closer to Northern Luzon on November 6, with a potential landfall near Babuyan Islands or the northern portion of mainland Cagayan on November 7.
The storm may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by November 8. Continuous intensification is expected, with Marce potentially reaching peak intensity before making landfall.
Residents and disaster management officials are urged to monitor local advisories and prepare for potential evacuations.