Good News: Storm Paolo Weakens Over West Philippine Sea, Heads to China
PAOLO – The state weather bureau delivered welcome news to the public as it confirmed that Tropical Storm Paolo has moved away from the Philippines and is heading toward southern China.
Severe Tropical Storm Paolo, internationally known as Matmo, has exited the Philippine area of responsibility and is now moving west-northwest toward southern China, the state weather agency announced on Saturday, October 4.
In its 11 a.m. update, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) confirmed that all tropical cyclone wind signals in the country have been lifted, indicating improved weather conditions.
Still, Pagasa reminded the public that Paolo’s broad outer rainbands may continue to bring storm to gale-force winds in several parts of Luzon, including Batanes, northern Cagayan with the Babuyan Islands, Apayao, Zambales, and Bataan.
The bureau also issued a marine advisory, noting that moderate to rough sea conditions are likely along the coasts of the Ilocos Region, Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Zambales, mainland Cagayan, Isabela, and Bataan. Small boats and motorbancas were strongly advised to avoid sailing due to hazardous conditions.
As of late Saturday morning, Paolo’s center was located about 440 kilometers west of Sinait, Ilocos Sur. The storm sustained winds of 110 kilometers per hour near its center, with gusts reaching up to 135 kph, and continued to move west-northwest at 20 kph.
Pagasa added that Paolo may intensify once again into a typhoon as it crosses the West Philippine Sea before approaching southern China’s coastal areas.
Meanwhile, forecasters are also monitoring a separate low-pressure area (LPA) outside the Philippine boundary. The system is showing signs of development and could strengthen into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours.
Although Paolo has moved away from the country, authorities cautioned that its lingering effects could still bring heavy rains, gusty winds, and rough seas across parts of Northern and Central Luzon. The public is urged to remain alert and heed official advisories for safety.