Typhoon Ofel (Usagi) continues to strengthen as it moves west-northwestward over the Philippine Sea, posing a significant threat to parts of Northern Luzon.
Current Location and Strength
As of 10:00 AM, the center of Typhoon Ofel was situated 485 km east-northeast of Daet, Camarines Norte, or 610 km east of Infanta, Quezon (coordinates: 15.3°N, 127.3°E).
The storm carries maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h near its center, gusts reaching up to 150 km/h, and a central pressure of 975 hPa.
It is currently moving west-northwest at 20 km/h.
Wind Signal Warnings
- Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2 has been raised over:
- Luzon: Eastern portions of mainland Cagayan (including Baggao, Peñablanca, Gattaran, Gonzaga, Lal-Lo, and Santa Ana) and the eastern portion of Isabela (Maconacon, Divilacan, Palanan).
- Wind Threat: Gale-force winds (62 to 88 km/h) expected within 24 hours, with minor to moderate impacts on life and property.
- Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 is in effect for:
- Luzon: Batanes, Babuyan Islands, the rest of mainland Cagayan, the rest of Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Apayao, Kalinga, Abra, Mountain Province, the eastern portion of Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, and the northern portion of Aurora.
- Wind Threat: Strong winds (39 to 61 km/h) anticipated within 36 hours, with minimal to minor impacts on life and property.
Potential Hazards
- Heavy Rainfall: For specific rainfall forecasts, refer to Weather Advisory No. 23 issued earlier today.
- Severe Winds: Winds may be intensified in coastal and mountainous areas. Localized wind impacts are possible, particularly in Signal No. 1 areas.
- Coastal Inundation: A storm surge of 1.0 to 3.0 meters may threaten low-lying coastal areas in Batanes, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Cagayan (including Babuyan Islands), Isabela, and northern Aurora over the next 48 hours. More details are provided in Storm Surge Warning No. 4.
Sea Conditions
- Very Rough Seas: Coastal waters east of mainland Cagayan, Isabela, and northern Aurora could see waves up to 10 meters. Mariners should avoid sea travel in these areas.
- Rough Seas: The waters off Batanes, Catanduanes, and Polillo Islands will also experience hazardous conditions, with wave heights reaching 3.5 to 4 meters.
- Moderate Seas: Areas along the northern seaboard of Ilocos Norte, Quezon, and parts of Samar should exercise caution, with wave heights between 2.0 and 2.5 meters.
Forecast and Outlook
Typhoon Ofel is projected to make landfall along the eastern coast of Cagayan or Isabela tomorrow, November 14, in the afternoon.
After crossing Luzon, it will slow and may take an erratic path as it moves north-northwest over the Luzon Strait.
While changes in its track remain possible, authorities emphasize that weather impacts may still affect regions outside the forecasted landfall area.
Residents are urged to stay updated on the latest advisories and prepare for strong winds, heavy rains, and potential storm surges. Mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should remain in port until conditions improve.
