Severe Tropical Storm “Kristine” has strengthened, bringing storm-force winds and heavy rainfall as it approaches Northern Luzon.
As of 4:00 PM today, Kristine was located 175 km east of Echague, Isabela, with maximum sustained winds of 95 km/h near the center, gustiness reaching 115 km/h, and a central pressure of 980 hPa.
It is moving northwestward at 20 km/h.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) Raised:
- TCWS No. 3: Isabela, Kalinga, Ifugao, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, and parts of Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan, and Ilocos Sur are under storm-force winds, with wind speeds of 89 to 117 km/h. Moderate to significant damage to life and property is expected in these areas within the next 18 hours.
- TCWS No. 2: Gale-force winds will affect Ilocos Norte, Apayao, Cagayan, and other surrounding provinces. Winds between 62 to 88 km/h are expected, posing a minor to moderate threat.
- TCWS No. 1: Strong winds will impact parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, including Metro Manila, Bicol, Eastern Samar, and Surigao del Norte. Winds of 39 to 61 km/h are forecast.
Heavy Rainfall and Severe Winds:
Storm-force winds will bring heavy rainfall over Northern and Central Luzon.
The public is advised to monitor flood warnings, landslides, and coastal inundation risks in low-lying and coastal areas, especially in Isabela, Cagayan, and Aurora provinces.
Coastal Hazards and Sea Conditions:
The seaboards of Northern and Central Luzon, including Cagayan and Zambales, are under Gale Warnings with seas reaching up to 8.0 meters in height.
Sea travel remains risky for all types of vessels, and mariners are urged to seek shelter immediately.
Track and Forecast:
Kristine is expected to make landfall in Isabela tonight or early tomorrow morning (October 24), after which it will traverse the mountainous areas of Northern Luzon before heading out to the West Philippine Sea.
It may re-intensify after exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility by October 25.
Authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and heed official warnings for their safety.