Super Typhoon Rosal (Champi) maintained maximum sustained winds of 215 kilometers per hour (kph) as it moved west northwestward over the sea east of Northern Luzon on Wednesday, October 21, according to PAGASA.
In its 11 a.m. tropical cyclone bulletin, PAGASA said Rosal was packing gusts of up to 265 kph and moving at 25 kph. Its center was estimated at 845 kilometers east of Northern Luzon as of 10 a.m.
Batanes remains under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2, where gale-force winds of 62 to 88 kph may pose a minor to moderate threat to life and property.
Meanwhile, Signal No. 1 is in effect over Cagayan, including the Babuyan Islands; eastern Isabela; Ilocos Norte; Apayao; and the northeastern portion of Catanduanes. These areas may experience strong winds of 39 to 61 kph.
PAGASA said the highest wind signal that may be raised during Rosal’s passage is Signal No. 2 or 3.
Strong winds, dangerous seas expected
The agency warned that the combined effects of the northeast wind flow and Rosal’s outer circulation would bring strong to gale-force wind gusts to several parts of the country.
On Wednesday, these conditions are expected in the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, Romblon, Eastern Visayas, Siquijor, Bohol, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, Davao Region, Aurora and Sarangani.
The affected areas are expected to expand on Thursday, October 22, and Friday, October 23, covering much of Luzon and the Visayas, as well as several areas in Mindanao.
PAGASA also warned of very rough to high seas, with waves reaching up to nine meters along the northern and eastern seaboards of Batanes and the eastern seaboard of the Babuyan Islands.
Sea travel is considered risky for all types and sizes of vessels in affected waters. Mariners were advised to remain in port or seek safe shelter if already at sea.
Rosal may weaken after reaching peak intensity
PAGASA said Rosal was currently at its peak intensity, with a weakening trend expected to begin Wednesday afternoon or evening. It is forecast to weaken into a typhoon by Thursday and a severe tropical storm by Sunday, October 25.
The tropical cyclone is expected to move northwestward on Thursday before turning north northwestward on Friday and recurving northeastward by Sunday.
Based on the forecast track, Rosal is expected to be closest to Extreme Northern Luzon between Thursday and Friday afternoon. It may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Friday evening or early Saturday, October 24.
PAGASA urged residents in areas vulnerable to heavy rainfall and strong winds to take precautionary measures and follow evacuation instructions from local authorities.
