Nando has intensified into a Severe Tropical Storm

Tropical Storm Nando has intensified into a Severe Tropical Storm while moving over the Philippine Sea east of Central Luzon, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Current Status

As of 10:00 PM, the center of Severe Tropical Storm Nando was estimated at 840 km east of Central Luzon (16.2°N, 130.0°E). The system has maximum sustained winds of 95 km/h near the center, gusts of up to 115 km/h, and a central pressure of 994 hPa. It is moving westward at 10 km/h. Strong to storm-force winds extend outward up to 410 km from the center.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals

No wind signals are currently in effect. However, Wind Signal No. 1 will likely be raised over Northern Luzon by tomorrow morning (Sept. 20). The highest possible wind signal during Nando’s passage may reach Signal No. 5.

Heavy Rainfall Outlook

PAGASA advises the public to refer to Weather Advisory No. 1 (11:00 PM) for rainfall details associated with Nando. Enhanced Southwest Monsoon rains are expected as the system approaches land.

Severe Winds

Nando may enhance the Southwest Monsoon, bringing strong to gale-force gusts especially in coastal and upland areas:

• Tomorrow, Sept. 20: Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, Caraga
• Sunday, Sept. 21: Zambales, Bataan, CALABARZON, Bicol Region, MIMAROPA, Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Caraga
• Monday, Sept. 22: Zambales, Bataan, CALABARZON, Bicol Region, MIMAROPA, Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, Davao Occidental

Coastal Waters

Moderate seas may prevail in the following areas:

• Up to 2.5 m: Eastern seaboards of Batanes, Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, Isabela, and Catanduanes

Small vessels and motorbancas are advised to take precautionary measures and avoid sailing in risky sea conditions.

Coastal Inundation

Storm surge warnings may be raised tomorrow along the coastal waters of Northern Luzon.

Track and Intensity Outlook

• Nando is forecast to move generally northwestward until tomorrow before turning west northwestward towards Extreme Northern Luzon.
• On the forecast track, the center of Nando may pass close or make landfall over Batanes or Babuyan Islands between Monday (Sept. 22) afternoon or evening. It may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Tuesday (Sept. 23).
• Nando will continue to intensify over the Philippine Sea. It may reach typhoon category tomorrow (Sept. 20) and could strengthen further into a super typhoon by Monday before its close approach to Batanes and Babuyan Islands.

Advisory

The public and disaster risk reduction offices are advised to take all necessary precautions. Residents in flood- and landslide-prone areas should prepare for possible evacuation and continue monitoring official advisories from PAGASA and their Regional Services Divisions.

The next tropical cyclone bulletin will be issued at 5:00 AM tomorrow.