Kristine raises wind signals, warns of storm surge in northern Philippines

Severe Tropical Storm Kristine is currently affecting various regions in the Philippines with warnings issued for strong winds, heavy rainfall, coastal inundation risks, and hazardous sea conditions.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has raised wind signals across different areas: Signal No. 3 over Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and CALABARZON; Signal No. 2 for Western Visayas, the rest of Luzon, Northern Samar, and Samar; and Signal No. 1 for other parts of Mindanao, Visayas, and Bicol.

Rainfall outlook indicates stormy conditions with potential flooding or landslides in Metro Manila, Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and CALABARZON due to intense to torrential rains. Other regions will experience moderate to heavy rainfall with isolated thunderstorms.

There is a high risk of life-threatening storm surge up to 3 meters above normal tide levels in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Zambales, and Quezon over the next 48 hours.

A Gale Warning is hoisted for coastal waters of Luzon and Visayas due to strong northeasterly winds. Mariners are advised against venturing out to sea under these conditions.