News Philippines | PAGASA Warns of Heavy Rainfall and Potential Flooding
Manila, Philippines — Tropical Depression Aghon is currently traversing the Samar Sea, making its way towards the Bicol Peninsula. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has forecasted that Aghon may cross the Bicol region between the afternoon of May 25, Saturday, and the early hours of May 26, Sunday.
After making two landfalls on Eastern Samar, Tropical Depression Aghon began its movement over the Samar Sea early Saturday morning, May 25. The storm first hit Homonhon Island at 11:20 PM on Friday, May 24, and then made another landfall in Giporlos at 12:40 PM on Saturday. Both areas are part of Eastern Samar.
News Philippines | Current Position and Movement
As of 7 AM on Saturday, the tropical depression was situated over the coastal waters of Catbalogan City in Samar Province, moving northwest at a relatively fast pace of 30 kilometers per hour (km/h). Aghon is projected to continue its path towards the Bicol Peninsula, potentially making its way across the region between Saturday afternoon and early Sunday morning.
PAGASA, in its 8 AM advisory, reported that Aghon’s maximum sustained winds remain at 55 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 85 km/h. Due to the tropical depression’s impact, rainfall warnings are in effect, and areas experiencing heavy rains may face the risks of flooding and landslides.
Rainfall Forecast and Warnings
The following regions are expected to receive significant rainfall due to Aghon’s influence:
Saturday, May 25:
100-200 millimeters (mm) of rainfall: Bicol, Northern Samar, Northern part of Samar
50-100 mm of rainfall: Southern Quezon, Polillo Islands, Marinduque, Eastern Romblon, other parts of Samar, Eastern Samar, Biliran, Northern parts of Western Visayas, Northern Leyte, Northern Cebu
Sunday, May 26:
100-200 mm of rainfall: Northern Camarines, Southern Camarines, Catanduanes
50-100 mm of rainfall: Quezon, Aurora, other parts of Bicol
Residents in these areas are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions as heavy rains could lead to flooding and landslides. Local disaster management teams are on high alert, ensuring that evacuation plans and safety measures are in place.
Community Preparedness and Safety Measures
Authorities are urging communities in the path of Tropical Depression Aghon to prepare for potential evacuations and to secure their homes against possible flooding. PAGASA continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as the weather system progresses.
The local government units (LGUs) have activated their emergency response teams, ensuring that resources and relief goods are ready for distribution. The public is advised to stay updated on weather bulletins and to heed the warnings issued by PAGASA and local authorities.
Impact on Transportation and Daily Activities
The inclement weather may also affect transportation and daily activities in the affected regions. Maritime travel is expected to be disrupted due to rough sea conditions, and the public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel during this period. Fishermen and small sea vessels are particularly warned against venturing out to sea.
Schools and offices in the path of the tropical depression may also be closed as a precautionary measure, and residents are advised to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid any accidents or injuries caused by the severe weather.
Conclusion
As Tropical Depression Aghon continues its journey across the Samar Sea towards Bicol, it is crucial for residents to stay informed and prepared. The potential for heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides poses significant risks, and prompt action by both authorities and the public can help mitigate these dangers.
By remaining alert and following safety protocols, communities can better protect themselves and reduce the impact of this tropical depression. PAGASA will continue to provide timely updates to ensure that everyone is kept aware of the latest developments.
