Typhoon Pepito. The fifth typhoon in three weeks is heading towards the Philippines!

Typhoon Pepito has strengthened to a Category 3 hurricane, becoming the fifth major tropical cyclone to hit the Philippines in the past three weeks. According to PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Service), wind speeds at the typhoon's epicenter reached 185 km/h (51 m/s) with gusts up to 220 km/h (61 m/s).

The hurricane is moving west at 20 km/h, and, as meteorologists predict that On November 17, 2024 it will reach the northern regions of the Philippines, including the islands of Luzon and Visayas.

Regional Impact Forecast

Northern Luzon

• Damaging winds are expected, with possible damage to buildings, power lines and infrastructure.
• Rainfall in some places will exceed 200 mm in 24 hours, which may lead to widespread flooding and landslides, especially in the mountainous areas of the Cordillera.

Central Luzon and Visayas

• Moderate to heavy rainfall with wind gusts up to 120 km/h.
• A storm surge of up to 3 meters is possible on the coast, threatening coastal communities.

Southern Luzon

• Moderate rainfall with localized flooding.

Characteristics of Typhoon Pepito

"Pepito" is characterized by a high rate of intensification, which is typical for cyclones in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean this season. Increased water temperatures, exceeding the norm by 1-2 °C, and weak wind shear created favorable conditions for its rapid development.

In addition, "Pepito" is accompanied by strong thunderstorms and squalls, which increases its destructive potential. According to JTWC, the system will remain a Category 3 until impact with land.

Preparatory measures

Local authorities have already issued Alert Signals No. 3 and No. 4 for northern and central Luzon.

• Evacuations are underway in low-lying and coastal areas prone to storm surges.
• Schools and offices are closed in potentially hazardous areas, and ships are advised to remain in ports.
• Emergency response units have been put on high alert.

2024 Typhoon Season

This year's typhoon season has been one of the most active in the past decade. Four major hurricanes have hit the Philippines in three weeks, including the catastrophic Category 4 Typhoon Usagi, which caused widespread destruction in November.

If Pepito continues on its current trajectory, it could intensify damage in areas that have yet to recover from previous storms.

Advice for Residents

• Check official weather sources: PAGASA, JTWC for weather updates.
• Prepare emergency kits with water, food, and medicine.
• Move to safe areas, especially if you live near the coast or in low-lying areas.
• Refrain from going outside during the storm.

Typhoon Pepito is a reminder of the constant threat tropical cyclones pose to residents of the Philippines. Be prepared and stay safe.