TROPICAL Storm ‘Nika’ has rapidly intensified into a severe tropical storm as it approaches the northern part of Luzon, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported early Friday morning.
As of PAGASA’s 5:00 AM bulletin, Nika has sustained winds of up to 100 km/h near its center, with gusts reaching 125 km/h. The storm is currently moving in a west-northwest direction at a speed of 30 km/h. Its center was last located 690 kilometers east of Infanta, Quezon.
Due to Nika’s intensification, PAGASA has raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 over many areas in eastern Quezon, including Calauag, Guinayangan, Tagkawayan, Pitogo, San Andres, Buenavista, San Francisco, Pagbilao, Infanta, Lopez, Catanauan, Mulanay, Unisan, General Luna, Plaridel, Quezon, Alabat, Sampaloc, Padre Burgos, Macalelon, Mauban, Perez, Agdangan, Gumaca, Atimonan, Real, San Narciso, General Nakar, and the Polillo Islands.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated in these regions within the next 36 hours, prompting authorities to warn residents of potential flooding and landslides. The public is urged to monitor PAGASA’s advisories and prepare for possible evacuation if necessary.
This latest development adds urgency as Nika’s rapid intensification could bring about more hazardous conditions. PAGASA continues to monitor the storm’s progress and will release further updates as the system approaches Luzon.