Caraga: Tropical Depression (TD) Verbena is advancing towards the Caraga Region, with potential landfall anticipated within the day, as reported by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in its 11 a.m. bulletin on Monday. Verbena was located 205 kilometers east southeast of Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, moving westward at a speed of 15 kph. It continues to maintain a strength of maximum sustained winds reaching 45 kph near its center, with gusts peaking at 55 kph.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 has been raised in various regions including Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, the northern portion of Palawan, and mainland Masbate. This signal is also in effect for Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo, Guimaras, and several other areas in the Visayas and Mindanao regions. A gale warning is currently active over the northern seaboard of Northern Luzon, indicating challenging maritime conditions.
Verbena is expected to bring heavy rainfall across several regions such as Oriental Mindoro, Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, and Quezon. PAGASA forecasts that Verbena will accelerate across the Visayas and the northern portion of Palawan between tonight and Tuesday, eventually emerging over the West Philippine Sea by Wednesday. It is anticipated that the tropical cyclone will exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Thursday, offering some respite to the affected areas.
