Tropical Depression Henry has exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility, bringing an end to the heavy rainfall and gale-force winds it brought to several areas. The state weather bureau announced this development on Thursday, adding that a potential super typhoon may enter the area next week. Henry is no longer directly affecting any part of the country, having moved out of the area around 8 p.m. on Wednesday. The depression's exit marks the end of its direct impact on the country.
As of 8 a.m., Henry was located 760 kilometers west of Bacnotan, La Union, with maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour and gusts of up to 70 kph. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said Henry is expected to continue moving farther away from the country's landmass. This movement will further reduce the depression's impact on the country. The administration provided this update during its 5 a.m. press briefing, detailing the current status of the depression.
A new weather disturbance may enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility between July 6 and July 12, potentially intensifying into a super typhoon. If it enters the area, the disturbance will be assigned the local name Inday, marking the country's ninth tropical cyclone this year. The potential Inday has already intensified into a tropical storm while outside the country's monitoring domain. Its forecast track indicates a possible veer toward the North Philippine Sea, although its trajectory remains highly uncertain.
The potential super typhoon is expected to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing rains over the western sections of the country. Residents in these areas can expect rainfall from the middle of next week through the weekend. The weather bureau urged residents in the western parts of the country to prepare for the possible effects of the potential super typhoon, should it enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility. This preparation is crucial to mitigate the potential impact of the storm.
The weather bureau will continue to monitor the situation, providing updates on the potential super typhoon's development and trajectory. The administration's latest data indicates that the disturbance may enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Wednesday or Thursday next week. Its potential intensification into a typhoon or super typhoon is a concern, and residents are advised to stay informed and prepared. The weather bureau's updates will provide critical information for those affected by the potential storm.
