Philippines: Tropical Depression strengthens into Tropical Storm Quinta (Molave) October 25

Event

A tropical depression located 370km (231mi) east of Catanduanes Island (Bicol region) has strengthened into Tropical Storm Quinta, known internationally as Molave, on Sunday, October 25. Quinta is currently sustaining winds of 65kmh (40mph) and these are expected to reach 111kmh (69mph) during its estimated landfall in the vicinity of Catanduanes between late Sunday and early Monday, October 26. After it moves over southern Luzon, Quinta will strengthen into a typhoon by late Tuesday, October 27, as it moves across the West Philippine Sea towards central Vietnam where landfall is currently forecast to occur between late Wednesday, October 28, and Thursday, October 29.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned that Quinta will bring moderate to heavy rains in a number of areas of the central Philippines in addition to gale force winds in some areas. A full list of areas currently under weather warnings in relation to Quinta can be found here. 

Strong winds and heavy rainfall could result in flooding, landslides, and disruptions to transport, businesses, and utilities as the storm system passes.

Context

Tropical depressions, storms, and typhoons typically hit Eastern Visayas as well as Southern, Central, and Northern Luzon during the typhoon season between June and November. However, a number of storm systems in the past years have also affected Central and Western Visayas, as well as eastern, northern, central, and western Mindanao, and have reached the country outside the typhoon season. Local meteorologists attribute these changes to climate change. In general, approximately 19 storms and typhoons enter the country's area of responsibility every year, and PAGASA reports that at least six weather systems make a direct landfall.

These storm systems have the potential to unleash heavy downpours and powerful winds, as well as trigger a major storm surge that pose considerable hazards to human life and infrastructure. Despite a credible risk, the Philippines has inadequate preparedness and crisis response that increases the impact of storm systems on human communities, strategic infrastructure as well as on travel and service delivery.

Advice

Those in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, including evacuation orders. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.