Philippines: Tropical cyclone warning issued ahead of storm landfall March 18-19 /update 1

Event

Filipino authorities issued a Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal (TCWS) number one, the lowest alert, on Sunday, March 17, as Tropical Depression Chedeng moves toward Davao and southern Mindanao. The alert was issued at 17:00 (local time) on Sunday and is in effect for Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, and portions of Davao del Norte and Cotabato provinces. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected in the affected areas; flooding and landslides are possible, especially in mountainous regions. Transportation disruptions, including flight delays and road closures, are expected through at least Tuesday, March 19.

As of 11:00 on Monday, Chedeng was located 490 km (305 mi) east of Davao City and producing sustained winds of 65 kph (40 mph). The storm is forecast to make landfall on Davao Oriental on Tuesday morning before moving into the Davao Gulf and across southern Mindanao. The first effects of the storm are forecast to begin on Monday with heavy rain and strong winds expected to last through Tuesday.

Context

Tropical cyclones and typhoons occur throughout the year in the west Pacific, though are most common from May through October. Chedeng, also known as 03W, passed over Palau on Sunday, March 17. 

Advice

Individuals in southern Philippines are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate severe weather, flooding, and consequent power, telecommunication, and transportation disruptions, and remember that walking or driving through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of moving water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater and chemical products; all items having come into contact with floodwater should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.