Severe Tropical Storm Nika (TORAJI) remains strong as it continues moving westward at 30 km/h over the Philippine Sea, approximately 500 km east of Infanta, Quezon, as of 10:00 AM today.
Nika is packing maximum sustained winds of 100 km/h near the center, gusts reaching up to 125 km/h, and a central pressure of 985 hPa.
The storm-force winds extend up to 300 km from the center, affecting a large portion of Luzon.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) in Effect:
- Signal No. 2 (Gale-force Winds)
- Wind Speeds: 62–88 km/h
- Areas Affected: Northern and central portions of Aurora (Dilasag, Casiguran, Dinalungan, Dipaculao, Maria Aurora, Baler), Isabela, Quirino, southern Cagayan (including Tuguegarao City), Nueva Vizcaya, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Ifugao.
- Impact: Minor to moderate threats to life and property.
- Signal No. 1 (Strong Winds)
- Wind Speeds: 39–61 km/h
- Areas Affected: Rest of Cagayan, Apayao, Abra, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, portions of Pangasinan, La Union, Benguet, and parts of Metro Manila (northern cities including Quezon City, Pasig, Marikina, Caloocan, Valenzuela, Malabon, and Navotas), among others.
- Impact: Minimal to minor threats to life and property.
Rainfall and Wind Hazards
- Heavy Rainfall: For specific rainfall forecasts, refer to Weather Advisory No. 5.
- Severe Winds: Gale-force winds may have minor to moderate impacts in areas under Signal No. 2. Areas under Signal No. 1 may experience minimal to minor wind impacts, with localized wind enhancements in coastal and upland areas.
- Storm Surge Warning: Moderate to high risk of storm surges in coastal areas of Ilocos Region, Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes within the next 48 hours. Residents in low-lying areas should remain alert.
Coastal Waters
- Gale Warnings: Sea conditions are extremely dangerous, with waves up to 7.0 meters along the seaboards of Isabela and Aurora. All sea travel is risky, and mariners are advised to seek shelter.
- Rough to Very Rough Seas: Impacting areas off Ilocos Region, Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Quezon, and Northern Samar. Small vessels are highly advised not to venture out.
Track and Intensity Outlook
Nika is projected to move west-northwest, making landfall over Isabela or Aurora by tomorrow morning or early afternoon. Despite landfall location, widespread hazards may affect areas outside the direct impact zone.
Nika is expected to strengthen into a typhoon before landfall and may slightly weaken while crossing Luzon.
Reintensification is possible once it moves over the West Philippine Sea and may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Tuesday evening.
Residents in affected areas are urged to stay updated with official advisories and prepare for potentially hazardous conditions.