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The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a new weather advisory regarding Severe Tropical Storm "Opong" which has intensified over the Philippine Sea. The storm, moving west-northwest at 20 km/h, poses significant threats to multiple regions, particularly as it approaches the eastern portions of the Philippines. The storm is expected to make landfall by Friday, September 26, possibly in the Bicol Region.
Current Conditions:
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Location: 670 km East of Surigao City, Surigao del Norte (10.0°N, 131.6°E)
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Strength: Maximum sustained winds of 95 km/h, gusts of up to 115 km/h
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Movement: West-northwest at 20 km/h
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Forecast Track: Opong is expected to make landfall in Bicol by Friday morning or afternoon, then cross Southern Luzon and exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Saturday, September 27.
Wind and Rain Hazards:
PAGASA has issued Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) across affected regions, with potential gale-force winds in many areas.
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Wind Signal No. 2: Expected in regions such as Ilocos, Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Zambales, and Metro Manila, which may experience moderate to severe damage to structures, particularly in coastal and exposed areas. Winds of up to 88 km/h are likely within 24 hours.
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Wind Signal No. 1: Lower-impact winds expected in areas like Cavite, Batangas, Quezon, and parts of Visayas. However, minor to moderate damage is still a possibility, with winds reaching 39-61 km/h.
The Southwest Monsoon, enhanced by Opong, will also bring strong to gale-force gusts over parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, affecting areas such as Batanes, Zamboanga del Norte, and MIMAROPA over the coming days.
Coastal Waters and Sea Conditions:
A Gale Warning may be issued tomorrow (September 25) as rough seas are expected along exposed coastal regions. Mariners are advised to take caution, with waves of up to 3.0 meters in areas such as the eastern seaboards of Northern Samar and Dinagat Islands, and the northern coast of Eastern Samar.
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Sea conditions will worsen: A high risk of storm surge of up to 3 meters is expected in coastal communities like Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, and parts of Eastern Samar.
Preparations and Precautions:
PAGASA urges the public to prepare for possible power outages, flooding, and structural damage. Key recommendations include:
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Secure outdoor items to prevent wind damage.
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Ensure emergency supplies are ready, including flashlights, water, batteries, and ready-to-eat food.
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Evacuate if instructed: People in high-risk areas should heed evacuation orders from local authorities.
For fishermen and boat operators, precautionary measures are essential, particularly in areas with Gale Warnings or rough seas.
Intensity Outlook:
Opong is expected to intensify as it moves westward, potentially reaching Typhoon strength before making landfall in Bicol Region on Friday, September 26. As it crosses the archipelago, the storm will likely weaken but could still remain a severe tropical storm as it travels across the country.
Residents of Bicol, Southern Luzon, and Eastern Visayas should be on high alert as these regions will experience the brunt of the storm's impact, particularly on Friday and Saturday.
What To Do:
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For residents in coastal areas: Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. If storm surges occur, seek higher ground immediately.
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For farmers and fisherfolk: Secure crops and boats, and harvest perishable crops in preparation for the storm’s arrival.
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For those in flood-prone areas: Elevate valuable items and be ready to move to higher ground if flood warnings are issued.
It is essential to continue monitoring updates from PAGASA and local weather services for real-time advisories.
Stay Safe and Prepared!
The public is reminded to stay vigilant and follow the instructions of local disaster risk reduction and management offices. Given the unpredictability of tropical cyclones, it is crucial to stay updated on PAGASA's Severe Weather Bulletins.
For further information, visit the official PAGASA website or tune in to your local news station for the latest updates.
This is an update post, 6:43PM, Sept. 9, 2025
Sources:
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PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration)
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Weather Advisory No. 21, 5:00 PM, September 24, 2025
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Storm Surge Warning No. 1, 2:00 PM, September 24, 2025
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PAGASA Official Website: www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph