‘Ramon’ likely to intensify into storm, may hit Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines—Tropical Depression Ramon is likely to intensify into a tropical storm as it makes its way to the Mindanao region. It could be the first storm to hit the region this year, according to a report by Radyo Inquirer 990 AM.

Moreover, according to weather forecaster Rene Paciente of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Atmospheric Services Administration (Pagasa), Metro Manila will have its share of bad weather and may even be placed under Storm Signal No. 1 by Thursday morning as the metropolis was within Ramon’s 150 kilometer radius. Ramon, he said, is gathering strength because it is still at sea.

Its size, currently at 300 kilometers, is also likely to grow bigger, Paciente added.

Public Storm Signal No.1 has been raised in Eastern Samar, Western Samar, Leyte, Bohol, Biliran, Camotes Island, Surigao del Norte (including Siargao Island), Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, and Dinagat and Camiguin islands.

Pagasa is also looking at a second scenario wherein Ramon will hit Metro Manila along with the Bicol Region and Quezon, Bulacan, Zambales and Bataan provinces. This scenario is seen due to a high pressure area and other environmental factors that could affect the track of Ramon.

Ramon is expected to exit Mindoro Friday morning and the Philippine area of responsibility by Saturday night, according to Pagasa.

The National Capital Region can expect rains Thursday or Friday.

Paciente said that they expected three to four more storms to affect the country before the year ends and that these are likely to make landfall.

He added that the next weather disturbances would bring little rain but would pack strong winds due to compressed air brought about by the northeast monsoon.
Out of 18 typhoons that have hit the country this year, Ramon is the first to hit the Mindanao region according to Pagasa Administrator Nathaniel Servando.

For the voice report, listen to Radyo Inquirer 990AM.