Typhoon Paolo intensified as it made landfall over Dinapigue, Isabela this morning, packing maximum sustained winds of 130 km/h near the center and gusts reaching 215 km/h, according to PAGASA. The cyclone is moving west-northwest at 25 km/h and is expected to traverse Northern Luzon before emerging over the West Philippine Sea later today.
As of 10:00 a.m., the typhoon’s center was tracked near San Guillermo, Isabela. Typhoon-force winds extend up to 350 km from its eye.
Wind Signals in Effect:
Signal No. 4 is raised over parts of Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Abra, where storm-force winds pose significant to severe threats to life and property.
Signal No. 3 covers more provinces in Cagayan Valley, Cordillera, and Ilocos Region with moderate to significant impacts expected.
Signals No. 2 and 1 are hoisted in surrounding areas, including parts of Cagayan, Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Zambales, and Bulacan.
Hazards:
Heavy Rainfall & Winds: Widespread rains, damaging winds, and possible landslides are expected across Northern and Central Luzon.
Storm Surge: Life-threatening surges up to 3 meters may hit coastal areas in Ilocos, Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, and Zambales. Broader coastal regions, including Metro Manila, CALABARZON, Mindoro, Bicol, and parts of Visayas, may also experience inundation within 36 hours.
Sea Travel: PAGASA warns of dangerous sea conditions with waves reaching up to 7 meters along the Isabela coast. Small vessels are strongly advised not to set sail.
PAGASA said Paolo may slightly weaken while crossing Luzon but could re-intensify upon reaching the West Philippine Sea. It is forecast to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility tomorrow, October 4.