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| Typhoon Betty (Mawar) weakens and heads towards northern Luzon, posing potential threats of heavy rainfall and strong winds. |
TACLOBAN CITY – Typhoon Betty (Mawar) shows signs of weakening as it advances west-northwestward over the Philippine Sea, heading towards the vicinity of northern Luzon.
As of 4:00 p.m., the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) estimated that the eye of Typhoon Betty was 630 kilometers east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.
With maximum sustained winds of 165 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 205 km/h, Typhoon Betty currently poses a threat to the region. The storm's central pressure was recorded at 940 hPa. Moving at a speed of 15 km/h, the typhoon is gradually weakening.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS) are currently in effect, specifically TCWS No. 1. This indicates a potential minimal to minor threat to life and property due to strong winds. The affected areas include Batanes, Cagayan (including Babuyan Islands), Isabela, Apayao, Ilocos Norte, Abra, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Aurora, Quirino, and Nueva Vizcaya.
PAGASA also highlighted the hazards affecting these land areas, including heavy rainfall and severe winds. Heavy rainfall is expected in various regions, with significant accumulations predicted in Babuyan Islands, Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Apayao, and other nearby provinces.
Moreover, Typhoon Betty's influence will enhance the Southwest Monsoon, resulting in possible monsoon rains over MIMAROPA, Western Visayas, CALABARZON, Central and Southern Luzon, and other affected areas.
The public and disaster risk reduction and management offices are urged to take necessary precautions to protect life and property. Residents living in highly susceptible areas should heed evacuation and safety instructions from local officials.
PAGASA advises monitoring local weather advisories for specific severe weather information in respective areas. —iTacloban