PAGASA: Severe tropical storm outside PAR may enhance habagat

MANILA — PAGASA on Thursday reported that the tropical cyclone known as Nanmadol (international name) has intensified into a severe tropical storm as it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

It is anticipated that Nanmadol will enter the PAR region on Thursday night or Friday morning. Once it is inside the country’s jurisdiction, it will be called “Josie”.

The state weather bureau said the cyclone will reach typhoon category within 24 hours.

Nanmadol was last spotted 1,830 km east northeast of Extreme Northern Luzon with peak winds of 95 kph near the center and gusts of up to 115 kph. It was heading west northwestward at 15 kph.

“This tropical storm is forecast to remain far from the Philippine landmass and not directly affect the weather condition in the country,” PAGASA said.

It may enhance, however, the southwest monsoon and bring rains over the western sections of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in the next 24 hours.

According to the weather forecasters, the enhancement of southwest monsoon may also bring gusty conditions reaching strong breeze to near-gale strength over Visayas, MIMAROPA, Bicol region, and the northern and western portions of Mindanao.

Nanmadol’s track

1. September 15, 2 PM: 1,700 km East Northeast of Extreme Northern Luzon (Outside the PAR)
2. September 16, 2 AM: 1,510 km East Northeast of Extreme Northern Luzon (Outside the PAR)
3. September 16, 2 PM: 1,360 km East Northeast of Extreme Northern Luzon
4. September 17, 2 AM: 1,260 km East Northeast of Extreme Northern Luzon (Outside the PAR)
5. September 17, 2 AM: 1,225 km Northeast of Extreme Northern Luzon (Outside the PAR)
6. September 18, 2 PM: 1,250 km Northeast of Extreme Northern Luzon (Outside the PAR)