Pepito typhoon nears Eastern Samar, high storm surge risk

Pepito is currently a powerful typhoon with maximum sustained winds of 175 kph near the center, gustiness up to 215 kph, and central pressure at 940 hPa.

It's moving northwestward at 25 kph and is expected to make landfall in Eastern Samar or Northern Samar within the next 24 hours.

There's a high risk of life-threatening storm surge with peak heights exceeding 3.0 m over low-lying or exposed coastal localities in Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Bicol Region, Marinduque, Quezon including Polillo Islands, Cavite, Batangas, Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Isabela, and Ilocos Region.

Sea travel is risky for all types of vessels. Mariners are advised to remain in port or seek shelter immediately until winds and waves subside.