Tropical Storm Emong Prompts Weather Alerts in Luzon
Tropical Storm Emong has led to the raising of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 in seven areas across Luzon. Authorities issued warnings as Emong is forecasted to intensify into a severe tropical storm before making landfall on Friday. This development has prompted local officials to prepare for possible heavy rains and flooding.
According to weather sources, Emong was last tracked approximately 150 kilometers west of Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, moving southwest at 20 kilometers per hour. It carries maximum sustained winds of 65 kph with gusts reaching 80 kph. The tropical storm’s path and strength have raised concerns among communities in its projected trajectory.
Areas Under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1
The following regions are under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 due to Emong’s approach:
- Ilocos Norte
- Ilocos Sur
- La Union
- Parts of Pangasinan, including Dasol, Burgos, Agno, Bani, Bolinao, Alaminos City, Mabini, Anda, Labrador, Sual, Binmaley, Dagupan City, Lingayen, Bugallon, Infanta, Sison, Mangaldan, San Fabian, San Jacinto, Pozorrubio
- Apayao
- Abra
- Benguet
Authorities say that Emong will generally move southwest Wednesday night before looping over the West Philippine Sea on Thursday morning due to interaction with Tropical Storm Dante. Landfall is expected over Ilocos Sur, La Union, or Pangasinan by Thursday evening or early Friday morning.
Additionally, a gale warning has been issued for the western seaboard of Northern Luzon, signaling rough sea conditions that could affect coastal communities and maritime activities.
Updates on Tropical Storm Dante
Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Dante, internationally known as Francisco, continues to hold its strength and may slightly intensify within the next 12 hours. Although further intensification into a severe tropical storm is considered less likely, it remains a possibility.
At present, Dante is located approximately 835 kilometers east-northeast of extreme Northern Luzon. It moves north-northwest at 25 kilometers per hour, with sustained winds of 65 kph and gusts up to 80 kph.
Forecasters note that Dante is expected to travel northwestward over the Philippine Sea for the next 24 hours before turning west-northwest toward the Ryukyu Islands and the East China Sea. It is likely to exit the Philippine area of responsibility by Thursday afternoon or evening.
No wind signals have been raised for Dante at this time, but officials continue to monitor its progress closely.
Impact and Precautions
The heavy rains caused by Emong’s southwest monsoon interaction have already resulted in flooding in some areas, prompting government offices and schools to suspend operations in the affected regions. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather advisories and prepare for potential disruptions.
Local leaders urge communities to remain vigilant, secure their homes, and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions. Emergency services stand ready to respond to any incidents arising from the storms.
For more news and updates on tropical storms and weather conditions, visit Filipinokami.com.
