Typhoon Goring, known internationally as Saola, has changed its course and is now moving north-northwestward, prompting the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) to raise tropical cyclone wind signal number 2 over parts of extreme Northern Luzon. According to PAGASA’s 11 p.m. bulletin, Goring maintains maximum sustained winds of 155 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gusts of up to 190 kph, while moving at a speed of 10 kph. The eye of the typhoon is currently located 240 kilometers east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.
As a precautionary measure against Goring’s strong winds, Signal No. 2 has been raised over Batanes, Babuyan Islands, and the extreme northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan. Signal No. 1 remains hoisted over the northern and eastern portions of mainland Cagayan, eastern portion of Isabela, and the northern portion of Apayao. PAGASA warns that higher wind signals may still be raised over extreme Northern Luzon and the northern or northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan on Tuesday.
PAGASA also notes the possibility of Goring making landfall in the vicinity of Batanes on Wednesday morning or afternoon. While Goring travels over the Luzon Strait, it may re-intensify over the next two to three days. The typhoon may pass near or over Batanes during or near its peak intensity. It is anticipated that Goring will leave the Philippine area of responsibility by Thursday morning.
Heavy rains are also expected due to Goring. Batanes, Babuyan Islands, the northern portion of Ilocos Norte, and northern portions and eastern portions of mainland Cagayan may experience rainfall ranging from 50 to 100 millimeters in the next 24 hours. From Tuesday evening to Wednesday evening, Batanes and Babuyan Islands may receive torrential rains exceeding 200 millimeters, while the northern portion of Ilocos Norte and the northwestern portion of Cagayan may experience intense rains ranging from 100 to 200 millimeters.
PAGASA also highlights the southwest monsoon, or “habagat,” which will be intensified by Goring, bringing occasional or monsoon rains over the western portions of Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and Visayas over the next three days.
Additionally, PAGASA is monitoring a tropical storm outside the Philippine area of responsibility. The tropical storm, named Haikui internationally, is currently 2,205 kilometers east of Northern Luzon. It is moving west-southwestward slowly, with maximum sustained winds of 65 kph and gusts of up to 80 kph. PAGASA predicts that Haikui may enter the PAR by Wednesday or Thursday and will be locally called “Hanna”.
