PAGASA Issues Signal No. 1 as Tropical Cyclone Opong Approaches Eastern Visayas

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) elevated the tropical cyclone alert to Signal No. 1 over Samar Island on Wednesday, September 24, as Tropical Cyclone Opong (internationally known as Bualoi) intensified while moving towards eastern Visayas and southern Luzon.

In its 11 a.m. weather update, PAGASA forecasted moderate to heavy rainfall on Wednesday across Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro. Similar weather conditions are expected on Thursday in various parts of Visayas and Luzon, with particularly heavy to torrential rains anticipated in Sorsogon and Northern Samar.

Additionally, the habagat winds are predicted to bring strong to gale-force gusts on Wednesday to multiple regions including the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Batanes, Cagayan (including the Babuyan Islands), Isabela, and extending through parts of Luzon, Western Visayas, and Mindanao.

PAGASA warned that Opong could attain typhoon strength before making landfall in Bicol by Friday afternoon. The cyclone may slightly weaken upon reaching land but is expected to sustain typhoon or severe tropical storm classification and has the potential to re-intensify over the West Philippine Sea.

"It must be emphasized that heavy rainfall, severe winds, and storm surge may still affect areas beyond the landfall point and outside the forecast confidence cone," the bureau stated, advising communities to remain vigilant.

At the time of the report, Opong was located approximately 815 kilometers east of northeastern Mindanao, generating maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour near its center, with gusts reaching up to 105 kilometers per hour.

Authorities continue to monitor the storm closely and urge the public to stay updated on weather advisories and take necessary precautions.