The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) projects that up to six additional tropical cyclones may enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) before 2024 ends, a forecast based on recent climate outlooks.
Chris Perez, PAGASA Weather Division’s officer-in-charge, explained in a GMA News report, “Our latest estimate from the recent Climate Forum suggests two to eight tropical cyclones are expected to enter PAR in the last quarter, with potentially six more on top of the two already recorded this October.”
He cautioned that storms entering PAR this time of year may be more intense and likely to cross the country’s mainland. Presently, 12 areas in Luzon are under Storm Signal No. 1 due to Tropical Storm Leon, which intensified into a severe tropical storm earlier this week.
Leon’s approach follows the recent impact of Tropical Storm Kristine, which caused severe flooding across Luzon, particularly affecting Quezon and the Bicol regions. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reports 116 fatalities linked to Kristine, with 10 deaths confirmed and others still under validation. Additionally, 39 individuals remain missing, and 109 sustained injuries.
The NDRRMC has declared 160 cities and municipalities in a state of calamity as recovery efforts continue in the storm-affected regions.
