Tropical Depression Kiko Leaves Philippine Area of Responsibility
Tropical Depression Kiko has officially exited the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) as of Wednesday afternoon, sources reported. The state weather bureau tracked the storm moving swiftly away from the country, signaling a shift in weather conditions for the region.
According to officials, by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Kiko was located approximately 1,115 kilometers east-northeast of northern Luzon. The tropical depression maintained maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour (kph) with gusts reaching up to 70 kph. This early update on Tropical Depression Kiko’s status emphasizes its rapid departure from the area.
Kiko Accelerates Toward Japan, Expected to Intensify
Local meteorological authorities noted that Kiko accelerated its movement, heading north-northwest at 30 kph—twice its previous speed—toward Japan. This increased velocity marks a significant change in the storm’s behavior compared to earlier reports.
Forecasts predict that Tropical Depression Kiko may strengthen into a tropical storm by Wednesday night or early Thursday morning. However, officials reassured the public that the Philippines will remain unaffected by this intensification due to the storm’s trajectory outside the PAR.
Southwest Monsoon Brings Rain to Luzon and Visayas
Despite Kiko’s exit, the southwest monsoon, locally known as “habagat,” is expected to bring rainfall across Luzon and the western parts of Visayas. Community members said that this weather pattern will cause scattered rain showers and thunderstorms in several regions.
Specifically, scattered rains and thunderstorms are anticipated in the Ilocos region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Cagayan, Isabela, Zambales, and Bataan. Meanwhile, isolated rain showers or thunderstorms may occur in Metro Manila, other parts of Luzon, and Western Visayas.
Flood Advisories Issued Amid Persistent Rains
Authorities have issued a severe flood advisory for the Cordillera Administrative Region, warning residents to remain vigilant. Additionally, moderate flood advisories are in place for Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and the Ilocos region due to expected heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon.
Local leaders urged communities in flood-prone areas to take precautionary measures and stay updated with weather bulletins as the habagat continues to influence local weather conditions.
For more news and updates on Tropical Depression Kiko, visit Filipinokami.com.
