Signal No. 5 Up Over Aurora and Bicol Region as ‘Uwan’ Strengthens

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 5 over parts of Luzon as Super Typhoon “Uwan” (international name: Fung-Wong) continues to intensify and move west-northwestward toward the eastern seaboard.

According to PAGASA’s latest severe weather bulletin, the central portion of Aurora, Polillo Islands, northern Camarines Norte, eastern Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes are now under Signal No. 5 — the highest wind warning category — as the super typhoon nears the Luzon coastline.

Powerful Winds and Life-Threatening Conditions

Under Signal No. 5, very strong winds exceeding 185 kilometers per hour may be expected within 12 hours. PAGASA warns of “widespread and catastrophic” damage in affected provinces, including:

• Almost total destruction of light-material houses, especially along coastal zones;

• Complete roof failure in many residences and industrial structures;

• Severe damage to power, communication, and transportation systems;

• Uprooting of trees and total loss of banana and coconut plantations.

  
  

Residents are urged to remain in sturdy shelters and to expect a period of calm weather once the eye of the typhoonpasses overhead — a temporary lull that will be followed by the return of violent winds, this time from the opposite direction.

Signal No. 4 Up Over Surrounding Provinces

Signal No. 4 is now hoisted over southern Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, eastern Pampanga, eastern Bulacan, northern and eastern Quezon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and parts of Albay. Winds greater than 118 km/h up to 184 km/h are expected, with “very heavy” damage to infrastructure and crops.

PAGASA said communities in these areas should have completed evacuations, as conditions are likely to worsen rapidly. “The locality is very likely to be hit directly by the eye of the typhoon,” the agency emphasized.

Signal No. 3 Across Central Luzon and Metro Manila

Meanwhile, Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Ilocos Region, and portions of Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, and Northern Samar remain under Signal No. 3, where winds of 89–117 km/h may be felt within 18 hours. PAGASA warns of heavy damage to houses made of light materials, widespread power outages, and dangerous travel conditions by land, sea, or air.

Lower Signals Across Visayas and Mindanao

Signal Nos. 1 and 2 remain in effect across large portions of the Visayas and northern Mindanao, including Leyte, Biliran, Cebu, Negros, Bohol, and Dinagat Islands, where intermittent rains and gusty winds are expected. Fisherfolk are advised to secure boats in port and suspend sea travel due to rough to very rough seas.

Preparedness and Safety Measures

Authorities have ordered the suspension of classes and work in affected regions. Disaster response units, local government officials, and rescue teams have been placed on full alert.Residents are reminded to:

• Evacuate low-lying and coastal areas prone to storm surge and flooding;

• Stay indoors and away from windows during strong winds;

• Avoid travel and unnecessary outdoor activity;

• Monitor official bulletins from PAGASA and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

  
  

Government on Full Alert

The NDRRMC said it has activated its emergency response protocol and prepositioned relief goods and rescue assets across Luzon. Local disaster councils have been advised to conduct forced evacuations in high-risk areas as the storm’s eyewall approaches.

PAGASA continues to monitor “Uwan” as it barrels toward Aurora and Isabela provinces, where landfall is projected within the next 12 to 18 hours if its current track holds.