Storm Surges Alert from Tropical Storm Crising
Authorities issued a storm surge warning as Tropical Storm Crising swept through northern Philippines on Saturday, July 19. The tropical cyclone, known internationally as Wipha, threatens coastal communities with surges ranging from 1 to 2 meters. This alert covers key areas in Ilocos Norte, Batanes, and Cagayan provinces.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) highlighted a “minimal to moderate risk of storm surge may occur in the next 12 hours,” emphasizing the urgency for residents to stay vigilant. The southwest monsoon, locally called habagat, also contributes to the rising sea levels along the affected coasts.
Areas at Risk of Storm Surges
In the Ilocos Region, the following towns in Ilocos Norte face possible surges: Bacarra, Badoc, Bangui, Burgos, Currimao, Laoag City, Pagudpud, Paoay, and Pasuquin. Meanwhile, all municipalities in Batanes, including Basco, Itbayat, Ivana, Mahatao, Sabtang, and Uyugan, are under watch.
Likewise, coastal zones in Cagayan province remain vulnerable to storm surge impacts as the tropical storm moves closer.
Latest Status and Movement of Tropical Storm Crising
Pagasa’s recent tropical cyclone bulletin reports that Crising carries maximum sustained winds up to 85 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching 115 kph. It was last located 125 kilometers west-northwest of Calayan, Cagayan, progressing west-northwest at 15 kilometers per hour.
Forecasts indicate that Crising is expected to leave the Philippine area of responsibility by Saturday afternoon. Despite its departure, the storm surge threat and monsoon rains could still affect the northern coastal communities in the coming hours.
Local officials and residents are urged to monitor weather updates closely and prepare accordingly. The combined effects of the tropical storm and habagat underscore the importance of readiness in vulnerable regions.
For more news and updates on Tropical Storm Crising, visit Filipinokami.com.
