Mirasol exits PAR as Nando nears typhoon strength

Tropical Depression Mirasol, internationally named Mitag, has exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Thursday, September 18.

Mirasol intensified into a tropical storm with sustained winds of 65 kph and gusts of up to 80 kph.

Its trough brought overcast skies and scattered rain showers to extreme Northern Luzon and the Ilocos Region, with a possibility of flashfloods and landslides.

Meanwhile, Tropical Depression Nando is forecast to intensify and could reach typhoon strength by Saturday and potentially super typhoon category by Tuesday, September 23.

Nando may bring monsoon rains over the western parts of Luzon, including Metro Manila, from Sunday, September 21, or Monday, September 22.

In Cagayan, residents in coastal and riverside areas have prepared to evacuate due to the possible effects of Nando, with warnings raised for Sunday.

The dike along the Baua River in Gonzaga town experienced a partial collapse due to continuous rainfall, with residents expressing concern over its delayed repair.

The Gonzaga Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Municipal Office (MDRRMO) is preparing evacuation centers with solar panels and distributing relief goods.