Tropical Storm Ramil, known internationally as Fengshen, has progressed over the West Philippine Sea and is anticipated to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Monday morning. As of Sunday, October 19, areas in Luzon remain under Signal No. 2, indicating that strong winds are expected.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the center of Ramil was located approximately 85 kilometers west northwest of Iba, Zambales, moving at a speed of 35 kilometers per hour in a west northwesterly direction. The storm was reported to have maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near its center, with gusts reaching up to 80 kilometers per hour.
PAGASA stated in its advisory that “on the forecast track, Ramil will continue moving west northwestward or northwestward over the West Philippine Sea. It is projected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility tomorrow morning.” The agency also noted that Ramil might re-intensify while over the West Philippine Sea, potentially reaching the severe tropical storm category once it leaves the Philippine region.
As of the latest update, several areas are under Signal No. 2, where winds exceeding 62 kilometers per hour are anticipated within the next 24 hours. Additionally, Signal No. 1 has been declared for other regions, indicating that winds between 39 to 61 kilometers per hour, along with intermittent rains, are expected for at least 36 hours.
As the storm continues its path, residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and prepare for possible severe weather conditions.
