Typhoon Leon (international name Kong-Rey) continues to intensify over the waters east of Cagayan as it moves west-northwest at 10 km/h.
As of 4:00 PM today, Leon is located approximately 505 km east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, packing maximum sustained winds of 150 km/h with gusts reaching 185 km/h.
Wind Signal Alerts
- Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 is in effect for Batanes, Babuyan Islands, mainland Cagayan, parts of Isabela, Apayao, Ilocos Norte, and portions of Kalinga and Abra. These areas should prepare for gale-force winds (62-88 km/h) within 24 hours, posing a minor to moderate threat to life and property.
- Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 covers other parts of Northern and Central Luzon, including Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Quezon (including Polillo Islands), Camarines provinces, Albay, Catanduanes, and parts of Sorsogon, with strong winds (39-61 km/h) expected in 36 hours.
Severe Wind and Rainfall Hazards
Residents of coastal and mountainous areas under these signals are urged to stay vigilant, as winds may strengthen in these regions.
Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential landslides are possible, especially in Signal No. 2 areas.
The storm could intensify further, potentially leading to Signal No. 3 or higher in Batanes and Babuyan Islands, as Leon nears super typhoon intensity.
Coastal and Marine Hazards
Storm surge warnings indicate a risk of 2-3 meter waves in coastal areas of Batanes and Babuyan Islands over the next 48 hours.
Gale Warnings are in effect for Northern Luzon and the eastern seaboards of Central and Southern Luzon, with sea conditions ranging from rough to very rough, with waves up to 10 meters in some areas.
Track and Forecast
Typhoon Leon is expected to continue its northwestward trajectory, approaching Batanes by Thursday morning and possibly reaching super typhoon strength.
The storm is projected to make landfall over Taiwan on Thursday evening before heading northward into the Taiwan Strait and exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility by early Friday.
Residents in affected regions are advised to stay informed on the latest updates and advisories from local authorities and to take precautionary measures as Typhoon Leon continues to intensify and approach land.