Severe tropical storm Aghon (Ewiniar) intensified on Sunday afternoon, prompting the issuance of Wind Signal No. 3 over the eastern section of Quezon province. The storm, with peak winds of 95 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts of up to 130 kph, was last spotted over the coastal waters of Mauban in Quezon.
PAGASA, the state weather bureau, cautioned residents of areas under Signal No. 3, including Polillo Islands, to brace for moderate to significant impacts from strong winds. Additionally, Signal No. 2 was raised over several provinces, while Signal No. 1 covered a wider area, including Metro Manila.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding and landslides in certain regions.
While Aghon is forecasted to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Wednesday, PAGASA warned of possible intensification into a typhoon. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported four injuries in Albay and over 2,700 affected individuals due to the storm. Sea travel remains risky for small seacrafts in certain coastal areas.
