Typhoon Marce Intensifies as It Nears Northeastern Cagayan

Typhoon Marce, currently at peak strength, is dangerously close to northeastern Cagayan, with its eye located approximately 115 km east of Aparri, Cagayan.

It has sustained winds of 175 km/h, gusts reaching up to 215 km/h, and central pressure at 940 hPa, moving west-northwest at 10 km/h.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) in Effect:

TCWS No.4:

• Areas Covered: Northern Cagayan (including Babuyan Islands), northern Apayao, and northern Ilocos Norte
• Wind Threat: Storm-force winds, significant to severe threat to life and property
• Wind Speeds: 118-184 km/h
• Expected Impacts: Potentially severe wind damage and risk to safety

TCWS No.3:

• Areas Covered: Batanes, remainder of Cagayan, Apayao, northern Abra, and parts of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur
• Wind Threat: Moderate to significant threat
• Wind Speeds: 89-117 km/h

TCWS No.2:

• Areas Covered: Central and northern portions of Isabela, Abra, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and additional northern Luzon areas
• Wind Threat: Gale-force winds, moderate threat to life and property
• Wind Speeds: 62-88 km/h

TCWS No.1:

• Areas Covered: Remaining portions of northern Luzon
• Wind Threat: Minimal to minor threat

Coastal Hazards

Storm Surge Warning:

• Potential Impact: Coastal areas in Batanes, Cagayan (including Babuyan Islands), Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union face life-threatening storm surges, with waves exceeding 3 meters in some areas.
• Advice: Residents in vulnerable areas should be prepared for evacuation if necessary.

Gale Warning:
Rough seas up to 12 meters are expected along northern Luzon coasts. Mariners and small craft operators are advised to seek safe harbor and avoid travel.

Track and Intensity Outlook

Marce is projected to make landfall this afternoon or evening, affecting Babuyan Islands, northern Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, and Apayao.

Landfall at peak intensity is anticipated, though slight weakening may occur due to interaction with Luzon’s terrain.

The typhoon is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by tomorrow afternoon or evening.