A storm surge warning has been issued for several coastal areas in the Philippines as Tropical Cyclone Pepito is forecasted to bring life-threatening sea conditions over the next 48 hours.
The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) issued the warning at 8:00 AM on Saturday, November 16, 2024.
Communities in low-lying coastal areas of Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes face the highest risk, with expected storm surge heights exceeding 3 meters.
Other areas such as Isabela, La Union, Pangasinan, Aurora, Batangas, and parts of the Bicol region, including Albay and Masbate, may experience surges between 2.1 to 3 meters.
Inundation levels between 1 to 2 meters are expected in coastal parts of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Bataan, Bulacan, and even Metro Manila.
Residents are advised to stay away from beaches and cancel all marine activities as sea levels could rapidly rise, leading to hazardous conditions.
DOST-PAGASA also recommends that disaster risk reduction and management offices remain on high alert and implement precautionary measures.
Authorities emphasize the importance of monitoring updates and preparing for evacuation if necessary to ensure public safety.
The next storm surge information will be released at 2:00 PM today.