As of the 11:00 PM update from PAGASA, Tropical Depression Kristine (#KristinePH) remains strong as it accelerates westward across the Philippine Sea.
Currently located 480 km east of Catarman, Northern Samar, Kristine is packing maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h and gusts reaching 70 km/h.
The storm’s broad influence, with winds extending up to 800 km from its center, has prompted the issuance of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 in several regions.
Areas Under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1
Luzon: Isabela (eastern portion), Quirino (southeastern portion), Nueva Vizcaya (southern portion), Aurora, Quezon (northern and eastern portions), Marinduque, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate including Ticao and Burias Islands.
Visayas: Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Leyte, Biliran, Southern Leyte.
Mindanao: Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte including Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands.
These areas are expected to experience wind speeds of 39-61 km/h within the next 36 hours, with minimal to minor impacts on life and property. Winds may intensify in coastal and elevated regions.
Gale-force gusts are anticipated tomorrow over Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Region, and several areas in Visayas and Mindanao.
Heavy Rainfall and Wind Forecast
PAGASA has issued a heavy rainfall outlook for areas affected by Kristine, particularly in regions under Signal No. 1. The public is advised to monitor PAGASA’s weather advisories for updates on potential flooding and landslides.
Sea Conditions and Warnings
A Gale Warning has been raised over the eastern seaboards of Southern Luzon and Visayas, with seas expected to reach up to 6.0 meters in certain areas.
Sea travel is highly risky, especially for small vessels. Mariners are urged to remain in port and avoid venturing into open waters until conditions improve.
Track and Intensity Outlook
Kristine is forecast to intensify into a tropical storm within 12 hours and could develop into a severe tropical storm by Wednesday (October 23).
Landfall is projected in Northern Luzon on Thursday morning, possibly as a severe tropical storm. As it moves into the West Philippine Sea, it may strengthen further into a typhoon by Friday (October 25).
Residents in affected areas are urged to stay vigilant and follow the instructions of local disaster management offices.