Pepito Intensifies Into Super Typhoon, PAGASA Says| PhilNews

PAGASA Says Typhoon Pepito Strengthens Into a Super Typhoon, Set to Affect Southern Luzon and Eastern Visayas

PEPITO PH – The state weather bureau PAGASA reported that Typhoon Pepito has intensified into a super typhoon.

As of Saturday morning (November 16, 2024), the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration reported that Typhoon Pepito has intensified into a super typhoon.

Pepito has maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching 230 kph it is located about 215 km east of Catarman in Northern Samar.

Moving west-northwest at 25 km/h, Pepito is expected to make landfall on Catanduanes later in the evening or early on Sunday, November 17. The storm may also affect parts of Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, and Quezon by Sunday evening.

The Philippine weather agency, Pagasa, confirmed that Pepito has surpassed the 185 kph threshold, officially classifying it as a super typhoon. This marks a significant shift in the storm’s strength, raising concerns about its impact on areas in its path.

Several provinces are now under various levels of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals. Signal No. 3, indicating winds of up to 185 km/h, has been raised in areas such as Catanduanes, parts of Albay, Sorsogon, and Eastern Samar. These regions can expect strong winds and heavy rainfall within the next 18 hours.

Meanwhile, Signal No. 2 is in effect in provinces like Camarines Norte, Ticao Island, and Northern Samar, where winds of up to 88 km/h may be felt in the next 24 hours. Other areas, including parts of Metro Manila, are under Signal No. 1, where weaker winds of up to 61 km/h are expected.

Residents in affected regions are urged to prepare for potential storm surges, heavy rain, and strong winds. Authorities recommend staying indoors, securing homes, and following evacuation orders if necessary.