“CHEDENG” Slightly Intensifies Over Philippine Sea

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reports that Tropical Depression “Chedeng” has slightly intensified while remaining stationary over the Philippine Sea east of Eastern Visayas.

Current Status

As of the 5:00 PM bulletin today, the center of Tropical Depression Chedeng was approximately 1,150 km east of Southeastern Luzon. It is currently exhibiting maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h near the center, with gustiness reaching up to 70 km/h. Despite its slight intensification, Chedeng is nearly stationary and no tropical cyclone wind signals have been hoisted at this time.

Rainfall and Wind Projections

Contrary to its intensification, Chedeng is not expected to bring heavy rainfall over any portion of the country in the upcoming 3 to 5 days. However, the public is advised to remain vigilant as Chedeng’s current forecast scenario may result in the enhancement of the Southwest Monsoon. This could potentially change the timing and intensity of monsoon rains, particularly in the western portion of the country.

Furthermore, while severe winds are not anticipated, the strengthening of the Southwest Monsoon due to Chedeng could result in intermittent wind gusts. PAGASA urges the public to stay updated regarding potential enhancements of the Southwest Monsoon.

Track and Intensity Outlook

As Chedeng continues to consolidate while intensifying, it is expected to gradually accelerate northwestward within the next 24 hours before turning west-northwestward on Thursday. Over the weekend, the tropical cyclone is predicted to shift northwards. Throughout the forecast period, Chedeng will remain distant from the Philippine landmass.

Chedeng’s favorable environmental conditions forecast a steady intensification over the next 4 days, potentially upgrading to a tropical storm category within the next 12 hours. By Thursday, Chedeng may reach typhoon category and is expected to peak in intensity on Friday or over the weekend while located over the Philippine Sea east of Northern Luzon.

The next bulletin on Tropical Depression Chedeng will be issued at 11:00 PM today.

SOURCE: PAGASA