Tropical Depression Outside PAR Develops East of Southern Luzon

A Low Pressure Area east of Southern Luzon has developed into a Tropical Depression outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Current Status

As of 10:00 AM, the center of the tropical depression was estimated at 1,265 km east of Southern Luzon (13.7°N, 135.9°E). The system has maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h near the center, gusts of up to 55 km/h, and a central pressure of 1008 hPa. It is moving west northwestward at 10 km/h. Strong winds extend outward up to 200 km from the center.

General Outlook

• The tropical depression is forecast to move generally northwestward and will enter the PAR between late evening today and tomorrow morning (Sept. 18). Once inside, it will be named Nando.
• While moving northwestward over the Philippine Sea, the system will turn west northwestward by Sunday (Sept. 21) toward Extreme Northern Luzon.
• Nando is expected to continue intensifying while over the Philippine Sea and may reach typhoon category by Monday (Sept. 22). Further intensification is not ruled out. Hoisting of Signal No. 4 over some portions of Northern Luzon is possible.
• The tropical depression outside PAR is less likely to directly affect the weather and sea conditions in the next 48 hours. However, Signal No. 1 may be hoisted over Northern Luzon as early as Saturday (Sept. 20). Heavy rains are possible by Sunday or Monday (Sept. 22).

Advisory

The public and disaster risk reduction offices are advised to continue monitoring for updates related to this tropical cyclone. Residents in high-risk areas should prepare for possible evacuation and follow instructions from local officials.

Unless there is an intermediate issuance, the next tropical cyclone advisory will be released at 11:00 PM today.