Storm Signal No. 1, heavy rainfall warnings up in parts of Luzon due to Super Typhoon Champi — PAGASA

Storm Signal No. 1 and heavy rainfall warnings have been raised in parts of Luzon due to the ongoing effects of Super Typhoon Champi, locally known as Rosal, with hazards such as strong winds and flooding expected in affected areas, according to the state weather bureau on Wednesday.

Signal No. 1 was raised over seven areas, including Batanes, the Babuyan Islands, and mainland Cagayan, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in its 5:00 a.m. tropical cyclone bulletin on Wednesday.

It was also raised over the eastern portion of Isabela, the northern and central portions of Apayao, the northeastern portion of Ilocos Norte, and the northeastern portion of Catanduanes.

PAGASA warned that affected areas could experience strong winds that pose a minimal to minor threat to life and property within the next 36 hours.

Meanwhile, PAGASA also issued heavy rainfall warnings for Ilocos Norte, Apayao, and Cagayan due to Champi, with rainfall of 50 to 100 millimeters expected in affected areas within the next 24 hours.

Similar areas may also be placed under heavy rainfall warnings until Friday.

The bureau warned of possible flooding and landslides in areas affected by heavy rainfall.

Super Typhoon Champi was last located 990 kilometers east of Northern Luzon as of 4:00 a.m., with maximum sustained winds of 215 kilometers per hour and gusts of up to 265 kph.

PAGASA said Champi is unlikely to make a direct landfall in the country, but its cloud extensions could still bring strong winds and rainfall to parts of Luzon.

In terms of its projected track and intensity, Champi is expected to move closest to extreme Northern Luzon between Thursday and Friday afternoon. It is then expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Friday evening or early Saturday morning.

PAGASA said the super typhoon could further intensify within the next six hours while over the Philippine Sea before beginning to weaken. It is expected to weaken into a severe tropical storm by Sunday. — Edg Adrian A. Eva