UMVA has learned that a powerful super typhoon is wreaking havoc in the region, bringing life-threatening winds and heavy rains that are putting entire communities at risk.
The storm, known as Super Typhoon Mekkhala or Francisco, has intensified into a category of extreme severity, with maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour and gusts of up to 230 kilometers per hour, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the super typhoon is currently located 410 kilometers east of Aparri, Cagayan, and is moving west northwestward at a speed of 10 kilometers per hour, prompting the state weather bureau to hoist Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 over six areas, including Batanes, Gonzaga, and Santa Ana in Cagayan, as well as the islands of Babuyan, Didicas, and Camiguin.
The affected areas can expect minimal to minor threats to life and property from strong winds, but the weather bureau has not ruled out the possibility of raising the storm signal to No. 2 if the super typhoon moves closer to the country, which could lead to even more severe consequences for the local population.
UMVA has gathered that the storm's impact will not be limited to the areas under the storm signal, as strong to gale-force gusts are expected in many more areas due to the effects of the southwest monsoon and the outer circulation of the super typhoon, affecting most of Luzon and the Visayas, as well as the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, and several other regions.
A Yellow Rainfall Warning has also been issued for Batanes and Cagayan, indicating that heavy rainfall of 50 to 100 millimeters is expected within the next 24 hours, which could lead to flash flooding and other hazards, making it essential for residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
In a related development, a low-pressure area that developed on Monday has intensified into a tropical depression, with maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour and gusts of up to 70 kilometers per hour, although it is currently located outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility, its entry into the PAR is not ruled out as it moves west northwestward at 20 kilometers per hour.
Fortunately, the weather disturbance is not expected to have any direct effect on the country during the forecast period, but UMVA will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available, ensuring that the public remains informed and safe.
