The low-pressure area (LPA) east of southeastern Luzon has intensified into Tropical Depression “Nika,” prompting immediate weather advisories and the hoisting of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 over Catanduanes.
Current Position and Strength
As of 10:00 AM, Tropical Depression Nika was located 1,145 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon, specifically at coordinates 14.5°N, 132.3°E. Nika has maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h near its center, with gustiness reaching up to 70 km/h and a central pressure of 1004 hPa.
The storm is moving westward at a rapid pace of 30 km/h, bringing strong winds that extend up to 250 kilometers from its core.
Wind Signal Raised in Catanduanes
PAGASA has issued Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 for Catanduanes, where strong winds ranging from 39 to 61 km/h are expected within the next 36 hours.
These winds could pose minimal to minor threats to life and property. Residents should prepare for disruptions, particularly in exposed coastal and upland areas where local winds may be stronger.
The highest possible wind signal for Nika may reach Signal No. 3 as it intensifies.
Potential Hazards Over Land
Nika’s development also brings with it a risk of heavy rainfall, with further advisories to be detailed in PAGASA’s Weather Advisory No. 1.
While winds may be of lower intensity in areas sheltered from the prevailing wind direction, enhanced gusts are anticipated in exposed upland and coastal regions.
Additionally, starting tomorrow (10 November), the surge of northeasterly winds is expected to generate strong to gale-force gusts in Batanes, northern Cagayan (including the Babuyan Islands), and Ilocos Norte.
Sea Conditions and Maritime Warnings
A sea condition warning is in place, as rough seas, reaching heights of up to 3.0 meters, are forecast for:
- The northern and eastern seaboards of Catanduanes.
- The waters surrounding Kalayaan Islands.
Mariners of small sea vessels, including motorbancas, are strongly advised to stay ashore, especially those with limited experience or ill-equipped boats.
Moderate sea conditions are expected along:
- The seaboards of Isabela, northern Aurora, and Camarines Norte, with waves up to 2.5 meters.
- The eastern seaboards of Albay, Sorsogon, and the northern parts of Camarines Sur, Polillo Islands, and Northern Samar.
Elsewhere, sea travel remains risky with moderate to rough seas ranging between 2.0 and 2.5 meters over parts of Cagayan Valley, Ilocos Region, and various western seaboards.
Forecast Track and Intensity Outlook
Nika is projected to move west northwestward over the coming days.
According to the latest forecast, it could make landfall over Isabela or Aurora on Monday, 11 November.
However, PAGASA stresses that impacts will not be limited to the exact landfall point, and hazards could be felt outside the storm’s forecast cone.
The system is expected to strengthen gradually, potentially reaching severe tropical storm status by Monday morning, just before it makes landfall.
Interaction with Luzon’s mountainous terrain will likely weaken Nika, though it is still forecast to retain severe tropical storm strength during its passage.
Preparedness Measures
Authorities urge residents in affected areas to remain alert and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Communities prone to flooding, landslides, and other hazards should follow evacuation orders and directives from local officials.
For location-specific warnings, including updates on rainfall and severe weather, residents are advised to monitor bulletins issued by their local PAGASA Regional Services Division.
