Typhoon “Julian” Threatens Northern Luzon, Benguet now Under Signal No. 1

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Typhoon Julian (KRATHON) continues to strengthen as it moves northwestward over the Philippine Sea, posing a significant threat to the northern parts of Luzon. As of the latest reports, Benguet is now under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1, signaling the arrival of strong winds in the area. The center of Typhoon Julian was located 235 km east of Calayan, Cagayan, with maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h and gustiness reaching up to 150 km/h.

Track and Intensity Outlook

Julian is forecast to move generally west-northwestward to north-northwestward from today through Tuesday morning (October 1), targeting the Batanes-Babuyan Islands area. A landfall or close approach scenario is highly likely by tomorrow, September 30, over these regions. Following this, the typhoon will accelerate north-northeastward over the waters east of Taiwan.

Julian will continue to intensify within the next 24 to 36 hours, and there remains the possibility that it could reach super typhoon status.

Severe Winds

Benguet, along with other areas in Northern and Central Luzon, is now under TCWS No. 1, which means winds between 39-61 km/h may be experienced. The current wind signals are as follows:

TCWS No. 3 (Gale-Force Winds)

• Batanes
• Northeastern portion of Babuyan Islands (Babuyan Island)

TCWS No. 2 (Gale-Force Winds)

• Mainland Cagayan
• Rest of Babuyan Islands (Camiguin Island, Calayan Island, Dalupiri Island, Fuga Island)
• Apayao
• Northern and central portions of Ilocos Norte:
  • Pagudpud
  • Adams
  • Dumalneg
  • Bangui
  • Burgos
  • Pasuquin
  • Vintar
  • Carasi
  • Nueva Era
  • Solsona
  • Piddig
  • Dingras
  • Sarrat
  • San Nicolas
  • Laoag City
  • Bacarra

TCWS No. 1 (Strong Winds)

• Rest of Ilocos Norte
• Ilocos Sur
• La Union
• Abra
• Kalinga
• Ifugao
• Mountain Province
• Benguet
• Isabela
• Nueva Vizcaya
• Quirino
• Northern and central portions of Aurora:
  • Dilasag
  • Casiguran
  • Dinalungan
  • Dipaculao

Residents in these areas should be prepared for varying wind impacts, ranging from minimal to significant, depending on the wind signal raised in their locality.

Heavy Rainfall Outlook

Typhoon Julian will bring heavy rains, particularly in coastal and mountainous regions exposed to winds. Those living in high-risk areas should closely monitor advisories and take necessary precautions, especially in flood- and landslide-prone regions.

Hazards Affecting Coastal Waters

A Gale Warning is in effect for the northern and eastern seaboards of Northern Luzon, where sea conditions will be extremely rough, with waves as high as 9 meters. Mariners are strongly advised to remain in port and avoid any sea travel as conditions will be perilous for all types of vessels. In other coastal areas, seas may reach heights of 4.5 meters, and even moderate sea conditions of up to 2.5 meters can be dangerous for smaller crafts.

Forecast Positions:

• September 30, 2024, 2:00 AM: 315 km East Northeast of Basco, Batanes
• October 1, 2024, 2:00 AM: 200 km East Northeast of Itbayat, Batanes
• October 2, 2024, 2:00 AM: 410 km Northeast of Itbayat, Batanes

Residents, especially those under TCWS, are advised to monitor weather updates and heed evacuation advisories from local authorities. The next tropical cyclone bulletin will be issued at 8:00 PM today.